Tailored Exercise Interventions for Chronic Pain Management across Different Age Groups

Abstract

A common ailment that severely reduces people's quality of life and capacity for function is chronic pain, especially in older adults. Traditional pharmaceutical approaches often fail to provide comprehensive relief and are associated with adverse effects. As a result, there is rising interest in non-pharmacological therapies, especially those based on exercise and customised for various age groups. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of age-appropriate exercise interventions in managing chronic pain and improving functional outcomes, while exploring the potential integration of digital health technologies. A comprehensive review and analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted, focusing on studies that examined various exercise interventions for chronic pain management across different age groups. The interventions included structured exercise programmes, aquatic therapy, Pilates, core stabilisation exercises, and supervised exercise therapy. The studies were critically analysed for their methodologies, participant demographics, specific interventions and outcomes related to pain management and functional improvements. The analysis revealed that age-appropriate and tailored exercise interventions significantly reduced pain intensity and improved functional outcomes across all age groups studied. For example, combining increased physical activity with structured exercise showed significant benefits in decreasing chronic pain in older persons. Therapeutic aquatic exercises and Pilates were particularly effective in enhancing proprioception, balance, and muscle strength, contributing to reduced pain and improved daily functioning. Supervised exercise therapy showed notable improvements in muscle strength and endurance, with high patient satisfaction levels. Additionally, core stabilisation exercises were found to significantly reduce pain and enhance core muscle function. The findings affirm the hypothesis that tailored and supervised exercise programmes are effective in managing chronic pain across different age groups. However, the variability in individual responses underscores the need for personalised approaches. Future research should focus on refining these interventions, exploring digital health applications, and evaluating integrative approaches that combine physical, psychological, and educational components. Such holistic strategies hold promise for improving the quality of life for individuals suffering from chronic pain, offering a comprehensive and patient-centred approach to pain management.