Pain, disability, and physical therapy in older adults: Issues of patientsand pain, practitioners and practice

Pain in older adults is a complex multidimensional biopsychosocial) problem that is always unpleasant and is frequently associated with physical disab ility, psychosocial distress, and reduced quality of life. Physical therapi sts knowledgeable about pain are in an excellent position to identify and m anage problems related to pain and pain-related dysfunction for this older population. Unfortunately, although pain is prevalent, complex, and integra l to health care, it has not been integral to health care education. Inadeq uate knowledge has led to inadequate assessment and management Current evid ence shows that optimum pain and disability management is predicated on a s ound assessment. Optimal management of the person with pain involves educat ion and activity guided by practitioners knowledgeable about the complexiti es of pain. Recommendations regarding pain and disability assessment and ma nagement by physical therapists are provided.