Factors Associated With Pain Frequency Among Adults With Chronic Conditions
Abstract
Context: Chronic pain affects approximately 100 million Americans, but little is known about the factors associated with pain frequency. Objectives: This article examines participants’ sociodemographics, medical history, health care access and utilization, self-management barriers, and social support associated with pain frequency among a sample of middle-aged and older adults with one or more chronic condition. Methods: Data were from the National Council on Aging Chronic Care Survey. An ordinal regression model was fitted to examine factors associated with self-reported pain frequency. Results: Having more chronic conditions (P < 0.001), taking more medication daily (P < 0.001), and visiting the physician five or more times a year (P = 0.011) were associated with more frequent pain. Always getting the help and support needed to manage their health problems was associated with less frequent pain (P < 0.001). Conclusion: More attention should be given to pain management during interactions with health care providers. Providing resources and support for disease self-management may help reduce pain frequency and self-management in middle-aged and older adults with chronic conditions.
Publication Title
Journal of Pain and Symptom Management
Recommended Citation
Robinson, K., Bergeron, C., Mingo, C., Meng, L., Ahn, S., Towne, S., Ory, M., & Smith, M. (2017). Factors Associated With Pain Frequency Among Adults With Chronic Conditions. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, 54 (5), 619-627. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2017.07.043
