Does it feel as if your bones are creaking since you blew out the candles on your last birthday cake? It could be the normal sign of wear and tear, but when is pain when you get older not a normal occurrence?
According to the Canadian Psychological Association, there are several myths about aging and pain. For example, many people (including some health professionals) sometimes say that “pain is a natural part of growing old”. This is not true. Pain is not caused by age. Pain is more common in older adults because the diseases or injuries that most often cause pain are more common in older adults.
This awareness may help you be ready for some types of pain and can even help you avoid irritation or injury as you age. Here are several types of pain you need to know about and tips to manage them from webmd.com:
Lower back pain
If you’re under 50 and haven’t had a back injury, your back pain is likely the result of sitting for long stretches which puts too much pressure on the discs in your back. Older adults, on the other hand, are more likely to have back pain from conditions like arthritis.
Strength-training and cardio exercise are both helpful. They increase blood flow, and help you build your core muscles, which support your spine. Start slow and see a pro if you’re not sure what exercises to do.
Physical therapy is another option. Your therapist can show you exercises that may help you move better and relieve pain. Over-the-counter medicines like acetaminophen and ibuprofen may also help, though you shouldn’t use them for more than a few days without your doctor’s OK.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
This common condition happens when the protective cartilage between your joint and bone breaks down, causing pain in those joints, like hands, knees, and hips. Osteoarthritis is often the result of age-related changes, or an injury or wear-and-tear from a sport or another activity.
Staying physically active is key. It keeps blood circulating, which can keep your joints healthy and reduce pain. And it strengthens the muscles around the joint, taking pressure off the joint and bone. If you’re new to exercise or have severe arthritis, talk to your doctor first. Another treatment option? Some people find relief by applying heat when their joints are stiff, and ice when they’re swollen. Medicines that you take by mouth or put directly on your skin may also help. Talk to your doctor. They may suggest over-the-counter or prescription pain medicine.
Muscle Strain or Pain
As you begin to age, your muscle fibres become less dense, which makes them less flexible and more prone to injury and soreness. That can raise the odds of having soreness after activities you used to do with no problem, like gardening or exercise. The best thing you can do is to try to avoid hurting yourself in the first place.
Don’t lift, push, or pull heavy items without help. Stretching and exercises like yoga and Pilates can help keep your muscles long and limber, and can help when you’re feeling sore, too.
However, if you are in a lot of pain, see your doctor.
