When a child experiences ongoing pain, it can affect far more than their body.

Persistent pain can impact school attendance, friendships, sleep, family life, confidence, and participation in activities they once enjoyed. It can also leave parents feeling worried, overwhelmed, or unsure how best to help.

Our occupational therapy service provides compassionate, evidence-informed support for children and adolescents and provides them and their families with the skills and knowledge to overcome persistent pain.

This service is suitable for private families and GP referrals.

Persistent Pain support for Children & Teens

Our approach focuses on supporting you as a whole person — not just your symptoms. We work alongside you to build a deeper understanding of your pain, reduce fear and uncertainty, and gently restore confidence in movement and daily activities. Together, we create a practical, personalised plan to help you return to the things that matter most in your life.

Understanding Persistent Pain in Children and Teens

Understanding the Child’s Experience

We begin by exploring:

  • The child’s pain experience

  • School attendance and participation

  • Activity patterns

  • Avoidance or flare-up cycles

  • Family impact

  • The child’s goals and worries

This stage focuses on listening and creating psychological safety.

Age-Appropriate Pain Education

Children and teens benefit from understanding how pain works.

Using developmentally appropriate language, we explain:

  • How the nervous system protects us

  • Why pain can continue even when tissues have healed

  • The concept of an “overprotective alarm system”

  • The difference between hurt and harm

Parents are included in education to ensure consistent messaging at home.

Identifying Patterns & the Boom–Bust Cycle

Many children with persistent pain:

  • Push through on “good days”

  • Crash with flare-ups afterwards

  • Avoid activities due to fear of pain

We help families recognise these patterns and develop a more balanced, sustainable approach.

We also explore the child’s “safety surveillance system” — how their body may be scanning for danger — and build strategies to increase feelings of safety and control.

Graded Re-Engagement in School & Activities

The goal is not to eliminate pain before returning to life — it is to support safe and supported re-entry into meaningful activities.

Intervention may include:

  • Gradual return-to-school planning

  • Pacing strategies

  • Activity scheduling

  • Confidence building in movement

  • Sensory and regulation strategies

  • Development of a child-friendly self-management plan

We collaborate with families and, where appropriate, schools and healthcare teams.

Get In Touch

Children are adaptable. With the right support, education, and gradual re-engagement, many young people can rebuild confidence, participation, and quality of life.

If you would like to discuss whether this service is suitable for your child, please contact us.