Pain is not a normal part of ageing, yet it’s incredibly common among older adults. As we age, our bodies naturally experience wear and tear, making us more vulnerable to a variety of painful conditions.
Unfortunately, pain in the elderly is often underreported, undertreated, or dismissed as an inevitable part of getting older. But it doesn’t have to be this way. At our clinic, we specialize in understanding the unique challenges of pain in older adults and offering tailored solutions to improve comfort, function, and quality of life.
Common Causes of Pain in the Elderly
Chronic pain affects many older adults. The causes can be diverse and complex, often involving multiple overlapping conditions.
1. Arthritis
One of the most common culprits, especially osteoarthritis, which leads to joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
2. Neuropathy
Age-related changes in the nervous system or underlying conditions like diabetes can cause burning, tingling, or shooting pain—especially in the hands and feet.
3. Spinal Conditions
Degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and compression fractures from osteoporosis can cause chronic back or neck pain.
4. Post-Surgical or Post-Injury Pain
Healing becomes slower with age, and past surgeries or falls can lead to lingering pain long after the event.
5. Cancer or Cancer Treatments
Pain may arise directly from tumours, or as a side effect of treatments like chemotherapy or radiation.
6. Poor Circulation
Peripheral artery disease or other vascular issues can cause cramping or aching, particularly in the legs.
Why Pain Management Is Especially Important in Older Adults
Uncontrolled pain in seniors can lead to:
- Decreased mobility and independence
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood changes like depression or anxiety
- Increased fall risk
- Cognitive decline
- Reduced overall quality of life
That’s why treating pain effectively isn’t just about comfort alone—it is also about preserving dignity and daily function among the elderly.
Treatment Options: What Pain Specialists Offer
At a pain management clinic, we take a personalized, multi-faceted approach to treating pain in older adults. We focus on safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatments, always taking into account a patient’s overall health, medications, and goals.
1. Comprehensive Evaluation
A thorough assessment can help us understand the type, cause, and severity of pain. This may include imaging studies, neurological exams, and a full review of medications to avoid harmful interactions.
2. Medication Management
Many elderly patients are on multiple medications, so we need to pay extra attention to the medications used to manage pain:
- Adjusting existing pain meds to minimise side effects
- Using topical agents (like lidocaine patches or capsaicin creams)
- Considering lower-dose medications or alternatives like antidepressants for nerve pain
3. Interventional Pain Procedures
These minimally invasive treatments can reduce pain at the source and often help patients avoid or delay surgery:
- Joint injections (steroids or hyaluronic acid) for arthritis
- Nerve blocks for targeted pain relief
- Epidural steroid injections for spine-related pain
- Radiofrequency ablation for longer-term relief in certain joints
- Spinal cord or peripheral nerve stimulation in select cases
4. Physiotherapy & Rehab Support
We work closely with physiotherapists to design gentle, effective programmes that preserve strength and function—without aggravating pain.
5. Coordination of Care
Pain management often requires collaboration. We also work closely with primary care physicians, orthopaedic specialists, neurologists, and geriatricians to ensure an all-rounded treatment plan.
Pain may be common in older adults, but it should never be ignored. Whether it’s joint pain from arthritis, nerve pain from diabetes, or spine issues limiting mobility, there are effective treatments available—and pain specialists are uniquely equipped to help.