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Interrelations between pain and alcohol: An integrative review
Emily L Zale1, Stephen A Maisto2, Joseph W Ditre2
1Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, United States.
Clinical Psychology Review
|March 14, 2015
Summary
Moderate alcohol consumption may improve pain outcomes, but excessive drinking is linked to worse pain. This review explores the complex, often curvilinear relationship between pain and alcohol use across various factors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
Background:
- Pain and alcohol use are common health issues with significant public health implications.
- Existing research primarily focuses on alcohol dependence and pain, leaving gaps in understanding low-to-moderate alcohol consumption's role.
- The interplay between pain and alcohol use is complex, involving psychological, social, and biological factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and integrate empirical evidence on the bidirectional relationship between pain and alcohol consumption.
- To examine the effects of alcohol on pain perception and the influence of pain on alcohol use behaviors.
- To identify potential psychosocial mechanisms underlying these associations.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review integrating findings from psychological, social, and biological studies.
- Analysis of research examining both the effects of alcohol on pain and pain on alcohol use.
- Inclusion of studies investigating low-to-moderate alcohol consumption alongside excessive use.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests a curvilinear relationship between alcohol consumption and pain.
- Moderate alcohol intake is associated with improved pain-related outcomes, such as enhanced quality of life.
- Excessive alcohol consumption and alcohol use disorder are linked to increased pain severity and negative outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Alcohol's effect on pain is dose-dependent, with moderate use potentially beneficial and excessive use detrimental.
- Pain can be a motivator for alcohol consumption, particularly for coping purposes.
- Future research should explore temporal dynamics, mechanisms, and interventions for managing co-occurring pain and alcohol use.
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