Finding Inner Peace Amidst Pain: Mindfulness Practice after a Road Traffic Injury
Junze Chen, Physiotherapist
Every year, thousands of Australians face the aftermath of road accidents. Statistics reveal the harsh reality: 11% of injury hospitalizations and 10% of injury deaths stem from transport accidents (Health & Welfare, 2023). These incidents often lead to debilitating consequences, including disability, psychological distress, and chronic pain.
Among those affected, recovery pathways vary. For instance, whiplash neck pain commonly follows road traffic injuries; studies indicate that approximately 25% experience mild disability, while another 25% grapple with ongoing moderate to severe pain and disability (Carroll et al., 2008). Moreover, individuals with whiplash neck pain report significant levels of psychological distress, comparable to those with more severe road traffic injuries like spinal cord and mild traumatic brain injuries (Craig et al., 2016), which may also contribute to the development of chronic pain after trauma (see Stress and Pain information sheet).
In such a challenging situation, finding inner peace amidst pain is essential.
Mindfulness practice offers a beacon of hope. By being present in the moment and acknowledging thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment, individuals can cultivate resilience in the face of adversity (see Mindfulness practice information sheet). It's an essential tool for managing stress and chronic pain, offering a pathway to inner peace amidst physical discomfort (see Relaxation Strategies Information Sheet).
Research shows that incorporating mindfulness into rehabilitation programs significantly enhances pain-coping abilities (see Stress and Pain information sheet). It also provides individuals with better mind space and enhances overall quality of life.
Here are practical steps to begin your mindfulness journey:
The Smiling Mind is a free app and has a number of helpful mindfulness exercises (Explore > Adults > Mindful Foundations > Exploring the Breath)
Review the Mindfulness Practice Information Sheet in your pain management program folder
Review the Sleep Management Information Sheet and engage in a 21-day sleep program through Smiling Mind to improve sleep quality
Collaborate with your physiotherapist to set up some goals on your Goal Sheet, such as a graded walking program
Practice stress management techniques like deep breathing exercises with our psychologists, and record your gain on the Stress Management Activities Information Sheet
Attending psychology group sessions to share your success with your peers
Record your daily practice on your Rehabilitation Sheet – consistency is the key!
By embracing mindfulness practice, individuals can find solace and resilience in the face of chronic pain after a road traffic injury. Remember, the journey to inner peace begins with a single mindful breath.
Feel free to reach your practitioners for a copy of these information sheets if you don’t have them in your pain management program folder. Let's journey together toward a brighter tomorrow!
Junze began working at Advance in 2021 and completed his Masters of Physiotherapy with the University of Sydney and a Bachelor of Exercise Science/Education with Southern Cross University and Tianjin University of Sport. Junze has been awarded a short-term research scholarship from the Institute of Musculoskeletal Health of the Royal Princes Hospital to study the effect of an early exercise intervention on balance in the elderly.