GOT A PAIN IN YOUR NECK? Your Health Plan Helps You Get Relief

Back, neck, shoulders, knees … debilitating pain in the joints and muscles are common, affecting up to 60% of us at one time or another in our lives. Musculoskeletal pain can be acute, meaning it is sudden and severe. Or the pain can be chronic (long-lasting). You may have localized pain (in one area of your body), or it may affect your entire body.

For relief, try these at-home tips. Alternate heat and cold on the injured area. Use over-the-counter pain relievers. Do gentle strengthening, conditioning, and stretching exercises. Try stress-reduction techniques such as deep-breathing, yoga, or meditation. Eat a healthy, non-inflammatory diet. Avoid smoking, which increases inflammation.

If musculoskeletal pain interferes with your usual activities, speak with a health care provider. The right treatment can help relieve the pain.

Your Health Plan benefits may include:

  • Alternative or complementary care (acupuncture, chiropractic, or therapeutic massage) may be covered with limits, depending on your Health Plan
  • Physical therapy (in person and virtual options)
  • Pain relievers (such as medications or steroid injections)
  • Surgery (such as joint replacement or arthroscopy)

To understand your benefit coverage, go to sdtrust.com, My Health Benefits, choose your union group and status, and view your Benefit Guide.

Resources:

CDC: Safely and Effectively Managing Pain Without Opioids

YOU CAN DO IT: Your Health Plan Helps You Reach Your Goals

Most people want to lose weight, be more fit and eat healthier … at any time of year, not just on January 1st. Wherever you are in your wellness journey, your Health Plan can help you reach your goals in every season. Take advantage of these programs:

  • Active & Fit Direct Gym Membership: Choose from 11,900+ fitness centers and studios with no long-term contracts for a low monthly rate. Plus, access 8,700+ guided workout videos in the comfort of your home. Login on your Health Plan carrier’s website for details.
  • Health Coaching: Connect with a health coach to get personalized support to manage your weight, reduce stress, quit tobacco, eat healthier or increase activity. Login on your Health Plan carrier’s website for details.

Resources:

IS THAT COVERED? How to View Your Benefit Coverage

For Active Employees and Early Retirees, the new Plan Year has begun. Any changes made during Open Enrollment began on January 1, 2023.

If you’re looking for benefit information, your go-to, 24/7 resource is the Trust website at sdtrust.com. Here’s where you’ll find:

  • The current Plan Year information and detailed Plan documents.
  • The latest updates and announcements posted on the Home page.
  • Links to your benefit carriers’ websites where you can create accounts, log in and view your coverage and claims details.
  • Click on Menu to view additional benefit information, find out when and how to enroll and how to make midyear Plan changes, get forms, read about the Trust, and much more.

Want to see which benefits you’re enrolled in and your enrolled dependents?

Resources:

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