Lower body osteoarticular pain and dose of analgesic medications in older disabled women: the Women's Health and Aging Study.

Abstract

This study assessed use and dosage of analgesic medications in relation to severity of osteoarticular pain. The type and dose of analgesic medication and the severity of pain in the lower back, hips, knees, or feet of 1002 older disabled women were assessed. Severe pain and the use of analgesic medications were reported by 48.5% and 78.8% of women, respectively. Among those who had severe pain, 41.2% were using less than 20% of the maximum analgesic dose. Overall, 6.6% of women were using more than 100% of the maximum dose. Severe pain is common. Additional, more effective, and safe analgesic treatments are needed for controlling pain in older persons.