Pain Management for Seniors: A Guide to Living a Comfortable Life

 

As we age, it's not uncommon to experience pain. In fact, according to the National Institute on Aging, about two-thirds of adults over the age of 65 have chronic pain. While pain is a normal part of aging, it doesn't have to control your life. There are many effective pain management strategies that can help you live a comfortable and active life.

I, personally, have been suffering with pain. Thankfully, I have a Doctor's appointment tomorrow to get down to the root of what is causing me so much discomfort in my legs. I will admit I am a little nervous what the diagnosis may be, but I will go with an open mind and deal with whatever I am dealt with.

Since this is currently an important topic for me I thought this blog post would be a good time to discuss the different types of pain that we experience, as well as the various pain management options available. We will also provide tips on how to talk to your doctor about pain and how to get the most out of your treatment plan.

Types of Pain

There are many different types of pain that seniors can experience. Some of the most common types include:

• Arthritis pain: Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation of the joints. It is a very common condition in seniors, affecting about 50% of adults over the age of 60. Arthritis pain can be mild to severe and can make it difficult to move around.
• Back pain: Back pain is another common problem for seniors. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including age-related changes in the spine, injury, and poor posture. Back pain can make it difficult to stand up straight, walk, and perform everyday activities.
• Headaches: Headaches are another common pain complaint among seniors. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, tension, allergies, and medication side effects. Headaches can range from mild to severe and can disrupt sleep, work, and leisure activities.
• Neurological pain: Neurological pain is caused by damage to the nerves. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including stroke, spinal cord injury, and diabetes. Neurological pain can be very severe and can make it difficult to move or feel parts of the body.
• Cancer pain: Pain is a common symptom of cancer. It can be caused by the cancer itself, by the treatment for cancer, or by both. Cancer pain can be mild to severe and can make it difficult to cope with the disease.

Pain Management Options

There are many different pain management options available for us. The best option for you will depend on the type of pain you are experiencing, its severity, and your overall health.

Some of the most common pain management options for seniors include:

• Over-the-counter medications: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can be effective for mild to moderate pain. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking over-the-counter medications, especially if you have any health conditions. This has been my go to for my pain management, but at this point is so temporary and I may need to move onto the next option.
• Prescription medications: Prescription medications can be more effective than over-the-counter medications for severe pain. However, they also have more side effects. Prescription pain medications should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion and reduce pain caused by arthritis, back pain, and other conditions. Physical therapy can also help to improve balance and coordination, which can reduce the risk of falls. Honestly, this is the route I am hoping for, for me personally
• Occupational therapy: Occupational therapy can help seniors learn how to adapt their homes and daily activities to reduce pain and improve function. Occupational therapists can also teach us how to use assistive devices, such as walkers and canes.
• Pain management programs: There are many pain management programs available that can help us learn how to manage their pain more effectively. These programs typically include education, counseling, and relaxation techniques.
• Alternative therapies: There are a number of alternative therapies that have been shown to be effective in managing pain, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and yoga. It is important to talk to your doctor before trying any alternative therapies.

Talking to Your Doctor About Pain

If you are experiencing pain, it is important to talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you to determine the cause of your pain and develop a treatment plan that is right for you. When talking to your doctor about pain, it is important to be prepared. Here are some tips:

• Write down your symptoms: Before your appointment, take some time to write down your symptoms, including their severity, frequency, and duration. This will help your doctor to better understand your pain. I made myself a daily journal of when the pain is the worst or when I more comfortable. When you are at the Doctor's office, if you do not have your list or journal, you may forget an important aspect of your pain. 
• Bring a list of your medications: Bring a list of all of the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications and supplements. This will help your doctor to avoid prescribing medications that may interact with each other.
• Ask questions: Don't be afraid to ask questions about your pain. Your doctor should be able to explain the cause of your pain, the risks and benefits of different treatment options, and how to manage your pain safely. Never let yourself feel rushed when speaking to the Doctor. Tell him/her everything and ask ANY question. Even if you feel like it is a "stupid" question, it is important to you, so it should be important to your Doctor to explain.  
• Jot it all down:   Take a notepad with you to write down anything the Doctor may tell you that you need to remember. Don't depend on "I will remember that later". More than likely you won't. When you leave the Doctor's office, you want to make sure you have all the facts correctly and written down to refer to later.

Managing pain can be a difficult process, but with the help of your Doctor and yourself, you can make it a bit easier. Remember, only YOU can take the first steps to help manage your pain. Don't be like me and wait until it is unbearable. I should have done this long ago, but tomorrow's appointment is almost here and I will go prepared by following the above outlined steps. Hopefully, anyone reading this that is in pain, takes immediate action and get it dealt with earlier rather than later.