Drug-free Treatments Offer Hope For Older People In Pain

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Drug-free Treatments Offer Hope For Older People In Pain

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/09/070910144556.htm

Mind-body therapies, which focus on the interactions between the

mind, body and behavior, and the ways in which emotional, mental,

social and behavioral factors can affect health, may be of

particular benefit to elderly chronic pain sufferers.

A new study published in Pain Medicine provides a structured review

of eight mind-body interventions for older people, including

progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, hypnosis, tai chi and

yoga.

All eight treatments were found to be feasible for older adults, and

no adverse events or safety issues were reported. The article finds

evidence that, in particular, progressive muscle relaxation may be

effective for older people with osteoarthritis pain, while

meditation and tai chi appear to improve function and coping with

low back pain and osteoarthritis.

Chronic pain is common among older people. Sufferers are often

unable to receive adequate treatment because of limited physician

training in pain management for the elderly and the increased

likelihood of side effects from pain medication.

" The trials we reviewed indicated that mind–body therapies were

especially well suited to the older adult with chronic pain, "

concludes lead author Natalia E. Morone, M.D., MSc. " This was

because of their gentle approach, which made them suitable for even

the frail older adult. Additionally, their positive emphasis on self-

exploration was a potential remedy for the heavy emotional,

psychological and social burden that is a hallmark of chronic pain. "