Michael G. DeGroote Pain Clinic

Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence in Pain Management

In 2023, we celebrated 50 years of supporting people across the region who live with chronic pain. What began in 1973 as one of the first pain clinics in Canada has evolved into the Michael G. DeGroote Pain Clinic, the largest academic, university-affiliated pain clinic in the country.

The clinic has taken a team approach to patient care since the beginning, with doctors, nurses, pharmacists, social workers, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychologists, researchers and more working together to bring patients the very best, leading-edge care.

2019 Partnership Award

The Michael G. DeGroote Pain Clinic is the 2019 Partnership Award recipient in recognition of their outstanding commitment to collaboration for the benefit of the health and well-being of our Indigenous peoples.

De dwa de dehs nye>s primary care team and specialists from the Michael G DeGroote Pain Clinic have provided our first culturally safe, patient-centred, chronic pain management clinics at both of our locations in Hamilton and Brantford.

Check back for upcoming events.

Share Stories

• Coming out from under a “blanket of pain”, 2023
• Enjoying the little things in life – a journey with chronic pain, 2022
• HHS patient soldiers on with virtual pain program, 2020

Testimonials

Amanda Hunt, Virtual Intensive Program, 2021

“The yoga class, developed and run by Dr. Hapidou, exceeded my expectations. Before my injury, I was active. After my injury things changed. I thought I had to do an hour on my mat or it was not a true practice. I fought with my body and couldn’t help comparing myself to others and what I used to do. Now I am happy to report I find joy in moving my body again. I get a good workout and all without increasing my pain. The best part is feeling confident I can keep progressing on my own. My mood is better, I sleep deeper at night, carry less tension and stress. After a month I am seeing increased strength and balance. Yoga is accessible for everyone. Don’t be afraid to start the journey with connected breath.”

Stephanie, Virtual Intensive Program, 2021

“I found the yoga portion of the pain program very enjoyable. I have tried numerous times to participate in yoga since my accident and always left feeling discouraged. I felt I would fall behind in a group setting or that the poses were too hard on me. The very gentle approach that Dr. Hapidou introduces is both achievable and tailored to each group member. If someone is struggling with a particular movement she is quick to suggest modifications to help before moving along. Yoga morning classes felt like a safe space where I could confidently move my body while being mindful of my limitations.”

Elizabeth, Virtual Pain Management Program, 2020

When I learned that the pain clinic sessions had been moved to a virtual environment, I was skeptical. How would online participation be helpful, given that my pain is far from virtual? I had a disappointing hunch that online delivery wouldn’t address my experiences or needs.

The program in fact helped enormously: I learned about pain theory, how to manage my pain, and how to incorporate some important lifestyle changes. I also participated in physiotherapy sessions that were, given the limitations of a web cam, surprisingly helpful.

The program’s interprofessional health team clearly cares about sharing their expertise and connecting with participants. The screen hardly made a difference, and in some contexts, virtual delivery of the content actually encouraged me to immediately consider how to integrate the information into my life. Moreover, if I needed to take a break, I just turned off the webcam and lay down, where I was able to keep listening and participating without feeling self-conscious the way I would have in a hospital classroom.”

Having finished the virtual program, I feel less overwhelmed by my pain and more in control. Most importantly, I’ve benefited so much from simply having my pain seen.”

A.B., 2020

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the Pain Clinic experience. It has re-freshened a desire to get out and enjoy what life has to offer at my own pace, direction and tempo. The Clinic has awakened suppressed enthusiasm for life. A life that includes an acknowledgment of pain and the capabilities to combat the negative association thought process, and away we go!”

Dale J., Intensive Program

“This clinic and the dedicated people that work here never lay claim to make your life pain free.  But if you have an open mind and a willingness to learn you can learn just how everyday life can affect your pain levels.  With the techniques and knowledge learned here, it just might make your day a little easier and a little easier is a good thing on a daily basis.  My deepest thanks and gratitude to the staff.”

Anonymous

“The Program helped me with depression, anxiety, stress, and physical ability.  All the staff were great in giving advice and knowledge to us. They were courteous and professional. I was taught more about chronic pain in one month than I have received in four years.”

Patient Poem

Michelle D. Bourdon, program graduate, 2019

I learned

I learned…
The right way to do a chin tuck,
Without looking like a lost duck.
That doing the clock would exercise my core,
And I’m looking forward to doing so much more.
With excitement I’m my own witness,
As I safely get back into fitness.
I was treated to some woodworking;
Rewarded with good home cooking;
I’m truly thankful for daily meditation,
And for the reassessment of my medication.
A daily body scan,
Is now part of my plan.
Windshield wipers as I wake myself up,
Pure mindfulness as I sip from my full cup.
I learned to pace………
Life is no longer a race.
Breath out, breath in,
And in the end, I know I win.

Note to self (self-compassion)

Quickly fixed with crazy glue
Broken, but still pushing through
Trying to live a simple day
Unable to keep the pain at bay
Uncontrollable tears
Understandable fears
Invisible pain, sadly too real
So many like me, are dealt this raw deal
But never too late to take control
And render care to my hurting soul
Slow down and take another break
Don’t delay, get some heat on that ache
Smell the fragrance of the trees
And on my face, feel the fresh breeze
Calm breath, calm body, calm mind
To my dear self, I will now be kind

Program Research Databases

We have the following five program research databases currently ongoing:

1. Pain Management Program Research Database (HHS)
2. Intensive Program Research Database (HHS)
3. Pelvic Pain Program Research Database (HHS)
4. CBT Group (HHS)
5. Introduction to Pain Management Program (HHS)

Each of our research databases comprise of outcome data collected on REDCap. REDCap is a data collection platform used in research. Self-reported outcome measures are collected at up to four time points (initial assessment, admission, discharge, and follow-ups) and allow us to increase our understanding of patient response to treatment and assist with ongoing program development, quality improvement, patient assessment, and research.

While we ask that several questionnaires be completed as part of patient participation in our pain management programs, the use of this data for research purposes is optional!

Various Chronic Pain Research

Along with the research databases described above, we actively conduct research on various aspects of chronic pain. The section below provides an overview of the research we currently have ongoing:

CUDIT-R

This research aims to determine whether the Cannabis Use Disorder Identification Test-Revised (CUDIT-R) and the Marijuana Consequences Questionnaire (MACQ) accurately screen for cannabis use disorder compared to a structured clinical interview in a sample of patients with chronic pain who are using cannabis for medical purposes.

Intensive 6 Month Follow-Up Study

Participants are invited to complete a six-month follow-up survey and are offered $20 gift cards for their participation.

RECOUP

Patients with chronic pain are often prescribed long-term opioid therapy. Considering the growing concerns on the risks of opioid use, The Toronto General Hospital (TGH) created the world’s first multidisciplinary perioperative Transitional Pain Service Program (TPSP). The TPSP enables targeted, mechanism-based, treatment innovations aimed at safe weaning of opioids for patients on opioids after major surgery. The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of the TPSP.

Lumbar Transforaminal Epidural Steroid Injections Chart Review and Prospective Study

We are doing a chart review and prospective study on patients who had received and will be receiving lumbar transforaminal epidural steroid injections. This injection is commonly given to patients with spinal stenosis. The aim of the study is to identify predictive factors that may improve the management of patients with spinal stenosis. Some of the objectives of the study are to examine whether corticosteroid injections are beneficial for patients with spinal stenosis and whether the degree of stenosis is associated with benefits seen from the procedure.

Genicular Nerve Ablation

We will be starting a prospective study on patients with persistent ipsilateral post-operative knee pain for 3 months or longer after a total knee arthroplasty and are considered for genicular nerve ablation. The primary objective of this study is to determine if radiofrequency ablation of the genicular nerves will reduce the pain score on Visual Analog Scale (VAS) at three, six and 12 months following the procedure.

Retrospective Study of Pelvic Floor Disorders and Dysfunctional Symptoms in Canadian Female Veterans

The aim of the current research is to retrospectively review past charts of females that have participated in an intensive chronic pain program and compare (1) incidence of pelvic floor dysfunctional symptoms and pelvic floor disorders self-reported in their initial assessments in both the civilian and Veteran patients, and (2) incidence of self-reported specific pelvic health treatment over their past rehabilitation course.

Minimal Dataset

This project is part of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research – Strategy for Patient Oriented Research-funded Chronic Pain Network (CPN) initiative. There are presently no national standardized and harmonized measures to monitor quality of care and health outcomes for chronic non-cancer pain patients. Without appropriate tracking, it is impossible to know whether organizational and clinical changes made to services/care to improve pain management occur and translate into the intended benefits to patients and society. The aim is to standardize the measures that are collected across all the pain clinics.

The Michael G. DeGroote Pain Clinic appreciates our volunteers. They are an integral part of our Program, and their contribution of time and knowledge offered to pain patients each week is greatly valued.

Please visit the volunteering section for further information regarding becoming a volunteer at Hamilton Health Sciences.

If you are interested in a volunteer position at the MGD Pain Clinic please email us at cpmu@hhsc.ca or phone 905-521-7931.

Cannabis E-Learning Course for individuals with chronic non-cancer pain who are taking cannabis for medical purposes. Registration is FREE.

Course Title: Using Cannabis for Medical Purposes.

This is a 23 lesson course with topics on what is cannabis, cannabis and your body, using cannabis medically, activities of daily living, and conversations with others.

Program temporarily closed to referrals

Fibromyalgia is a pain condition of the central nervous system characterized by multi-site body pain including pain in multiple joints, back, neck, and face.  Symptoms of fibromyalgia include widespread pain, overwhelming fatigue, nonrestorative sleep, cognitive difficulties, anxiety, and depression.  There is no cure for fibromyalgia. There are also no single medication strategies that work. International guidelines have identified that an interdisciplinary approach to fibromyalgia is the only approach that can reduce symptoms  Here at MGD Pain Clinic, our goal is to provide you with the skills, knowledge, and tools to increase your function and improve your quality of life.
The patient must be at the center of this approach and must have treatment goals.

What will I learn from the MGD Fibromyalgia Pain Management Program?

• Learn foundations of self-management
• The importance of fitness and proper body mechanics
• How chronic pain impacts sleep and the role of medication
• Role of nutrition in symptom management
• Relationship between gut health and pain
• Mindfulness to calm your mind and ease tension
• How your thinking impacts the way you feel
• The importance of goal setting in improving your quality of life
• How to pace and modify your daily activities
• Managing trauma and building resilience

Fibromyalgia Brochure

Additional Resources:

http://www.fmguidelines.ca/
https://www.fibroandpain.org/
https://www.arthritis.ca/
https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/fibromyalgia

This five-week program, for adults with chronic pain, can teach you strategies to improve your function and quality of life. Participation in our program connects you with others who have chronic pain and with our experienced staff. You do not have to figure it out by yourself. Within this environment, you can learn and apply skills to help you cope with your pain condition. Pain levels will decrease, over time, when you are managing your pain properly.

Patients participate in education classes, structured activities, and set goals in the area of productivity, work, physical fitness, social re-integration, recreation, nutrition, and family. Patients may be prescribed medication for their mood, as necessary. If left untreated, mood problems can become a barrier to rehabilitation.

Our goal is to provide patients with strategies and skills that they can apply to their own home and workplace environments.

Services include:

• Occupational therapy (Case management)
• Functional activities like wood working, horticulture and group outings.
• Fitness programs like Yoga, Tai Chi and water exercises
• Psychotherapy
• Medication management
• Social work
• Nutrition
• Daily relaxation therapy
• Goal-setting
• Group discussions

Family members may also be frequently affected by the pain problem. Individual sessions can be arranged for you and your spouse and/or other family members. We want to include the people most important to you in private family discussions so you will have support at home for the things you have been learning in the program.

Being part of a group provides you with an opportunity to share your experiences with others. It is a great opportunity to renew your social self.

We now offer these services both virtually and in-person. Group sizes are at a maximum of 5 people.

Please review our brochure, below. If you have any questions, please contact 905-521-2100 Ext.44621

Intensive Pain Program Brochure

Michael G. DeGroote Pain Clinic is a proud member of the Ontario Rehab Alliance. 

Our goal is to enable changes in chronic pain sufferers so they can improve overall functioning and quality of life. We provide image guided interventions for chronic non-malignant pain conditions which includes the following:

• Epidural Steroid Injections (Cervical, Thoracic and Lumbar)
• Selective Nerve Root Block
• Medial Branch Blocks (MBBs)/Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
• Facet Joint Injections
• Sacroiliac Joint Injection/Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
• Occipital Nerve Blocks/Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
• Botox Injections
• Peripheral Joint Injections
• Peripheral Joint Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) (shoulder, hip, knee)
• Sympathetic nerve blocks (Stellate Ganglion Block, Lumbar Sympathetic Block, Ganglion Impar Block)
• Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
• Viscosupplementation Injections
• IV Ketamine infusions
• IV Lidocaine infusions

Click here for all interventional services and medical management resources

After we receive your referral, you will be booked for an assessment and provided with education, fitness, relaxation and goal setting opportunities. A treatment plan will be provided to you as your family physician.

Our team includes Physicians, Occupational Therapists, Pharmacists, Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Physiotherapists, Social Workers, Psychologists, Psychotherapists, and Dietitians.

A referral from your family doctor is required. All referred patients must attend an assessment to determine their suitability for the program and care pathway.

Pain Management Program

Chronic Pelvic Pain (CPP) is pain that appears in the pelvis, anterior abdominal wall, lower back, or buttocks, that lasts for at least six months and is serious enough to cause a disability. We have a pelvic pain program for males and females.

The treatment team consists of pain physicians, nurse practitioners, occupational therapists, pharmacists, psychologists, social workers, and pelvic health physiotherapists.

A referral from your gynecologist or urologist is required.

Treatments are once a week for 8 weeks, for approximately 2.5 hours. Topics include:

• Science of Chronic Pelvic Pain
• Emotion Regulation for Pelvic Pain
• Anatomy of Pelvic Floor Health & Flare-ups
• Trauma-focuses workshops
• Pacing, Self-Management & Goals
• Communication, Intimacy & Relationships
• Promoting Anti-Inflammatory Diet – Bowel & Bladder Management

Pelvic Pain Brochure

Chronic Pain Self Management Workshops for Hamilton Niagara, Haldimand, and Brant LHIN are available. The program is delivered for 2 hours/week over a 6 week period in a community setting. There is no cost to the participant and no referral required. Call to register or register online. Classes are filled on a first come basis to a maximum of 20 participants. View dates and details!

Learning how to manage pain so that you can get on with living a satisfying fulfilling life can represent a daily challenge for those faced with chronic pain.  The Chronic Pain Self Management Program will teach you a variety of tools that can help you meet that challenge.  The research studies found that, on average, people who have taken the program have more vitality, less pain, less dependence on others, improved mental health, and more involved in everyday activities compared to people who have not taken the program.