Looking Local has added a function for dealing with musculoskeletal disorders to its Self-Care Hub
Kirklees Council’s Public Health Directorate has added a new element to its public health initiatives, becoming the first organisation to roll out a new online tool to help people manage chronic pain brought on musculoskeletal disorders (MSK).
The tool has been developed by Looking Local, the developer of digital tools for public services which is owned by the council, which has launched it within its Self-Care Hub.
Looking Local, which is owned by Kirklees Council, has worked with the Musculoskeletal Solutions Alliance (MSA) to create a range of content based on proven behavioural therapy techniques to help users achieve measurable goals. Users can also look for support from a circle of formal and informal carers.
Kirklees has been working with Greater Huddersfield and North Kirklees Care Commissioning Groups (CCGs) on the initial launch, following recent trials in West Yorkshire. Patients experiencing chronic pain, breathing problems or anxiety took part in testing the platform.
Looking Local said that several CCGs have already shown an interest in using the Self-Care Hub for MSK management.
Managing director Guy Giles said: “Gaining the insight and expertise of the MSA will be core to the development of the MSK component of the Self-Care Hub and is reinforcing our belief in its value as a pain management tool for people affected by arthritis and related conditions. The hub has had very positive feedback from both professionals and end-users and we look forward to seeing it bring about real improvements to the lives of this group of patients.”
Looking Local provides a range of digital tools to support public services in areas including healthcare, housing, money and benefits.
Image by Termininja, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
