MSK training: Chronic pain

Chronic pain: management, guidelines, and opioid reduction in primary care

CPD points: 2

Length: 2 hours

Date: Wednesday 13 January 2027

Location: Online via Microsoft Teams

Cost: £40

Aim: Improve confidence and effectiveness in managing complex primary care interactions related to chronic pain.

Key learning objectives

• To construct an evidence‑based chronic pain management plan that incorporates non‑pharmacological strategies.
• To classify the risks and benefits of pain‑relief medication options and select prescribing approaches that align with NICE guidance.  
• To identify patients who may benefit from opioid reduction and to construct an appropriate communication strategy to support this.

Course information

This two-hour online course supports clinicians in primary care to manage persistent and chronic pain more confidently, offering practical consultation skills for difficult conversations, medication review, and person-centred care.

Managing chronic pain in primary care often involves navigating uncertainty, complex presentations, and challenging interactions. This course provides clear, evidence-based approaches to medication reductions, opioid deprescribing, and safe medication review, alongside nonpharmacological approaches that improve patient outcomes. It also explores how current NICE guidelines can be applied in real-world primary care practice, alongside strategies for using compassionate communication and sustainable self-management support.

This live online course is delivered as a single two-hour webinar combining interactive teaching with discussion, case-based learning, and opportunities to practise consultation skills.

Learners will receive the course slides, resource handout, two CPD points, and access to a recording for 60 days for flexible, on-demand review.

Register your interest

You can register your interest to be notified when new dates become available. Please email ProfessionalEngagement@arthritis-uk.org with the ‘I'm interested: Chronic pain'.