What Older Adults Should Know About Pain Management

Aching back. Sore knees. Shooting pain down your legs. Many older adults chalk these up to getting older, but according to Dr. Ahad Mussarat, a pain management physician at GBMC HealthCare, that doesn’t have to be the approach. 

Dr. Mussarat joined WMAR to discuss when pain crosses a line and what today’s treatment options actually look like. He draws a clear distinction between everyday wear and tear that comes with aging and the kind of pain that interferes with sleep, function, and quality of life. Knowing the difference and feeling empowered to speak up is the first step. 

Modern pain management takes a step-by-step approach, starting conservatively and only escalating when necessary. Dr. Mussarat walks through that progression and explains why getting in early almost always leads to better outcomes, even if you’ve been living with pain for a while. 

Before reaching for Tylenol or ibuprofen, there are a few important things older adults, especially those on multiple medications, should know. Dr. Mussarat shares straightforward guidance that’s worth hearing before your next trip to the pharmacy. 

Watch the full interview to hear Dr. Mussarat’s advice on taking that first step toward relief, and talk to your primary care provider about a referral to GBMC’s pain management team, if you are experiencing chronic pain.