RHEUMATOLOGY DAY PROGRAM:
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I know where to go for each of my session?
All of the group education sessions will be held in the 3rd floor conference room (K 369). Your physiotherapy exercise classes will take place in the physiotherapy area. The relaxation training and relaxation drop-in sessions will be held in the Relaxation Room (K375). If you are booked for individual consultations with physiotherapy, occupational therapy, psychology or social work, the staff will inform you in advance where to meet them. If you aren't sure if you are in the right place, don't hesitate to ask!

What does it mean when my schedule says "Individual session or rest break"?
Every participant has a few open shots on their schedule. If you are having difficulty with any area of the program or need any extra individual time, a staff member may schedule an individual session during that time period. These individual sessions may be booked with a psychologist, social worker, occupational therapist or physiotherapist. It is the staff member's responsibility to book that session time with you in advance. So, if you have nothing booked, use that time to practice your relaxation or have a nice long coffee break!

How long is each session?
Each session is 50 minutes in length, giving you ten minutes between each session to use the washroom, stretch your legs etc. We will try our best to stay on time!

What if I can't sit still that long without increased pain?
You won't be the only person with that problem. Many of our patients have a sitting tolerance that is much shorter than 50 minutes. If sitting still becomes uncomfortable, please feel free to stand up during the session or even leave the room briefly if you need to stretch your legs. You do not need to ask permission to do these things & it is not considered rude. We are very used to having our patients stand up, stretch, and leave the room for breaks during sessions.

Where can I go to relax when I have free time on my schedule?
If you want to eat your lunch, talk with other participants, or just sit quietly during your free time, please feel free to use the RDP kitchen area (K371). If you want to practice your relaxation skills, feel free to spend some time in the Relaxation Room. Of course, you are also free to go to Tim Horton's for a coffee or go for a walk to stretch your legs.

What is the Relaxation Room for?
The Relaxation Room is a room designated specifically for practicing your relaxation skills, and the reclining chairs are reserved for that purpose. The relaxation room is booked for relaxation training groups and drop-in sessions, but is available for your use at any other time (check the schedule on the door for availability). The Relaxation Room is designated as a quiet area - please follow the rules as outlined in your relaxation information package.

What do I do if I get sick during the program?
If you can't attend the program due to illness, please call Linda Shanahan (646-6340) first thing in the morning to let her know you won't be here.

What if my pain is bad one day & I'm not sure I can manage the full day schedule?
When your symptoms are really bad, we would like you to do as much as possible without overexerting yourself. Make an effort to come to the program and attend as many sessions as you feel able to. Also, take as many breaks as you need to stay comfortable.