Conservative Approach to Pain Management Better for Older Adults

A commentary in Mayo Clinic Proceedings said pain management in older adults can be safely realized with a plan that balances risk and benefit, including drug- and non-drug-based treatment strategies, according to United Press International . "Chronic pain is very common in older adults, and is often associated with other issues, such as depression, insomnia, social isolation, and poor quality of life," said Mayo Clinic geriatrician and co-author Brandon Verdoorn. "While it's generally not curable, it can be managed with a systematic approach that begins with a thorough, function-based pain assessment followed by recognition and treatment of contributing conditions." Verdoorn advised that pain management should emphasize initial low-risk approaches, usually involving non-invasive, non-drug options like exercise, stretching, or physical therapy. The process should start with rigorous assessment looking at function and concurrently addressing associated conditions like depression and insomnia. The authors recommend caution when transitioning to higher-risk treatment strategies, watching patients routinely and discontinuing ineffective options.