Summary: Are you afraid of developing pain as you get older? Many are afraid and with good reason. Older adults are the fastest growing segment of the world’s population, and pain is the most common reason they seek medical care. Persistent pain ranges from 25% to 50% of older adults and this rises with age. Fortunately, chronic pain is not an inevitable part of aging. Treatment can be more complicated, but the barriers to proper pain control are lifting. Today’s show features a story of success from Manny Bellmore, an active 76 year old, retired mathematician who tells us how he’s overcome severe spine pain. We’ll then be joined by Dr. Perry Fine, Professor at the University of Utah School of Medicine, and President of the American Academy of Pain Medicine who’ll talk about what’s unique about treating pain in older adults.
