Living with both post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and chronic pain can feel overwhelming. Research shows the two conditions are deeply connected, and when left untreated, they reinforce each other. In Nova Scotia, patients often wait months for trauma-informed care.
At One to One Wellness in Halifax, our Nurse Practitioner (NP) works alongside physiotherapists, psychologists, and occupational therapists to deliver timely, whole-person support for people managing both PTSD and chronic pain.
Why PTSD and Chronic Pain Overlap
- Nervous System Hyperarousal: PTSD triggers fight-or-flight responses that amplify pain signals.
- Sleep Problems: Insomnia or nightmares worsen fatigue and pain sensitivity.
- Emotional Stress: Anxiety, hypervigilance, and avoidance behaviors increase physical suffering.
👉 For example, one Halifax veteran with PTSD and back pain reported years of fragmented care. With NP-led medication management, psychology for trauma therapy, physiotherapy for safe reconditioning, and OT for workplace planning, he finally experienced consistent improvement.
The Role of a Nurse Practitioner in Halifax
- Screening & Assessment: Identifying both PTSD symptoms and chronic pain factors.
- Medication Management: Prescribing for anxiety, depression, sleep, and pain.
- Care Coordination: Ensuring patients connect with psychology for trauma therapy, physiotherapy for functional recovery, and occupational therapy for daily function or return-to-work planning.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-ups to adapt care as needs change.
The Interdisciplinary Team Approach
- Physiotherapy: Builds safe, progressive exercise routines that restore mobility without flare-ups.
- Psychology: Provides trauma-focused therapy (e.g., CBT, EMDR) to manage PTSD symptoms.
- Occupational Therapy: Helps patients adapt daily routines, energy use, and work participation.
Together, this NP-led model ensures patients in Halifax don’t have to navigate recovery alone.
Evidence
Otis et al. (2009, Pain Medicine) found that multidisciplinary interventions for patients with PTSD and chronic pain led to significantly better functional outcomes than treating each condition separately.
👉 Read the study on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19818040/
FAQs
Q: Can PTSD make chronic pain worse?
Yes. PTSD activates the nervous system, which can intensify pain perception and prolong recovery.
Q: Can Nurse Practitioners in Halifax treat PTSD?
Yes. NPs are trained to prescribe medications for PTSD-related symptoms and connect patients to psychology services.
Q: Is interdisciplinary care covered by insurance in Nova Scotia?
Many extended health plans, Veterans Affairs Canada, and WCB Nova Scotia cover these services.
Key Takeaways
- PTSD and chronic pain are best treated together, not in isolation.
- Nurse Practitioners in Halifax provide accessible, medical leadership for integrated care.
- Physiotherapy, psychology, and OT amplify recovery outcomes.
📍 If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD and chronic pain in Halifax, book an appointment with our Nurse Practitioner today. Learn more about our Psychology Services, Physiotherapy, and Occupational Therapy services as part of your care plan.
