Pain in the Elderly: A Symptom That Should Not Be Ignored

Dr. Helio Widson Alves Pinheiro• CRM/PE 21167 | RQE 2217, 2808

Chronic pain in the elderly population is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. Understanding its particularities is fundamental to providing quality of life in old age.

Pain Is Not Normal in Aging

Although degenerative diseases are more common with advancing age, pain should NOT be accepted as 'normal aging'. Every elderly person with chronic pain deserves proper evaluation and treatment.

Common Causes of Pain in the Elderly

Osteoarthritis
Osteoporosis and vertebral fractures
Spinal canal stenosis
Diabetic neuropathy
Post-herpetic neuralgia
Rheumatoid arthritis
Polymyalgia rheumatica

Impact of Pain on Quality of Life

Untreated pain in the elderly is associated with:

Depression and anxiety
Social isolation
Sleep disorders
Loss of functional independence
Increased fall risk
Cognitive decline

Specialized Approach at Intrador

Treatment of pain in the elderly requires special care:

Complete multidimensional assessment
Careful medication prescription
Minimally invasive techniques (blocks, acupuncture)
Multidisciplinary approach
Attention to comorbidities and drug interactions

Specialized Care for the Elderly

Schedule an evaluation with a pain specialist for individualized and safe treatment.

Schedule Consultation

Clinical Review

Dra. Emillene Cordeiro

Physiatrist | CRM/PE 23074 | RQE 6109
Specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation