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Age and musculoskeletal pain
Joaquim J F Soares1, Orjan Sundin, Giorgio Grossi
1Unit of Mental Health and Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden. joaquim.soares@smd.sll.se
International Journal of Behavioral Medicine
|May 24, 2003
Summary
Older and younger primary pain patients experience pain differently. Older patients report longer duration and complexity, while younger patients have more severe pain and financial strain.
Area of Science:
- Pain Medicine
- Geriatric Medicine
- Sociology
Background:
- Pain is a complex phenomenon influenced by various demographic and socioeconomic factors.
- Understanding age-related differences in pain perception and management is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the associations between age and pain variables in primary pain patients.
- To identify how older and younger patients differ in their pain experiences, treatment, and related factors.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 949 primary pain patients.
- Data collected via questionnaires assessing pain intensity, duration, complexity, disability, medication use, and socioeconomic factors.
- Multivariate regression analysis to determine factors influencing disability.
Main Results:
- Older patients (65+ years) reported longer pain duration, greater complexity, and higher disability.
- Younger patients experienced more severe pain, financial strain, and unemployment.
- Older patients consumed more medications and received more treatments.
- Age was a significant determinant of disability, though pain complexity also played a role.
Conclusions:
- Age significantly influences the experience of pain, disability, and treatment patterns in primary pain patients.
- Distinct differences exist in how older and younger individuals perceive and cope with pain.
- Tailored approaches considering age-specific factors are necessary for optimal pain management.