Chronic pain, age and depression often go hand in hand. Studies have shown chronic pain and depression can worsen each other. Therefore, it is very important to treat both. Here are some modalities of treatment.
Medications
Studies have shown medications targeted for both depression and chronic pain have better results than medication designed for only one of these disorders. Of note, all medications prescribed should be tailor fit for you in particular. Your other health conditions, history, and concurrent medications may mean some medications are not in your best interest.
SSRI
SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) have been shown to be effective in the treatment of chronic pain and depression. They are usually better tolerated than other medications in the elderly. Examples of SSRIs include fluoxetine, citalopram, fluvoxamine, and sertraline.
Selective Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors
Duloxetine and venlafaxine are examples of selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. These seem to be particularly effective in neuropathic pain such as diabetic neuropathy.
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Nortriptyline, amitriptyline, and clomipramine are some tricyclic antidepressants. These medications are often used in fibromyalgia, orofacial pain and cancer pain.
Noradrenergic and Specific Serotonergic Antidepressants
Mirtazapine is the medication most prescribed in this category. There have been studies showing it may help with cancer pain and other studies show it increases pain tolerance.
Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors
Bupropion is mainly used to treat depression and to help stop smoking. But a study did show that bupropion decreases allodynia. Allodynia is when pain is experienced with things that would not cause pain in most people, like putting on clothes or the feel of running water.
Serotonin Antagonist and Reuptake Inhibitors
Trazodone is the most common medication in this category. It has been shown to be effective in fibromyalgia and cancer pain.
Psychotherapeutic Treatment
Counseling can be very helpful in treating chronic pain and depression. There are various forms of psychotherapy to alleviate these disorders, such as: cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, psychodynamic therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy. Studies have shown a significant reduction in pain and depression when psychotherapy is used with medication rather than using medication alone.
Acupuncture
Research has shown acupuncture to be very effective in treating chronic pain and depression. Acupuncture has been found on numerous occasions to be just as efficacious as counseling alone.
Healthy Lifestyle
Caring for your overall health can significantly decrease chronic pain and it may alleviate depression.
Nutrition
Eat a well-balanced diet and try to attain and maintain a healthy weight.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep is essential in warding off chronic pain and depression. This can be a vicious cycle though. It is very difficult to get enough sleep when you are experiencing chronic pain and depression. Do all you can to get good sleep. Go to sleep at the same time nightly and avoid napping. Make sure bedtime is free of distractions such as TV, phone screen or bright lights.
Decrease Stress
Decreasing stress is, of course, easier said than done. We know stress definitely increases chronic pain and depression. Proven methods of decreasing stress are art therapy, dance, music, meditation, journaling, yoga and breathing exercises.
Support Groups
Support groups not only increase the joys of social interaction, but they are an excellent source of information. Others may be able to help with self-management techniques, and they may know of local resources for treatment of chronic pain and depression. If leaving your home is difficult, there are online support groups that may become a supportive community for you.
Chronic pain in the elderly may cause decreased social interaction to the point of isolation. This may result in feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. And, this may lead to depression. Therefore, it is important to treat both chronic pain and depression. There are plenty of ways to treat these disorders as listed in this article. If you are experiencing chronic pain and depression, consult your physician for a treatment plan that is best suited for you.
If you are having thoughts of self-harm,
- Dial or text 988 to speak to a trained counselor at the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
- Dial 1-800-662-HELP(4357) for referrals to local support groups, community organizations and treatment facilities.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
How has aging contributed to chronic pain and depression? What treatment modalities have you tried for these conditions? Which treatment methods did you find most effective? Please share in the comments below.
