How Old Is Too Old for Interventional Pain Treatments?

John K. Hong, M.D. | 6/28/2025

Chronic Pain in Elderly Individuals

Age is just a number—or is it? In the world of interventional pain management, many older adults wonder whether they are "too old" to benefit from procedures designed to reduce pain and improve function. With an aging population and increasing demand for non-opioid solutions, it's a timely and important question.

The Myth of Age Limits

Contrary to common belief, there is no strict upper age limit for interventional pain treatments. Rather than focusing on chronological age, physicians evaluate biological age, overall health status, and treatment goals. Many patients well into their 80s and even 90s undergo minimally invasive procedures successfully, with notable improvements in pain, mobility, and quality of life.

Why Age Alone Shouldn’t Be a Disqualifier

Minimally invasive techniques such as epidural steroid injections, genicular nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulation, kyphoplasty, and even endoscopic spine surgery can offer substantial relief with relatively low risk. These procedures are often performed under local anesthesia or mild sedation, reducing the risks associated with general anesthesia—especially important in elderly patients.

What Matters More Than Age

• Functional Status: Can the patient walk, engage socially, or maintain independence? If pain is limiting those abilities, intervention may be justified.

• Comorbidities: Conditions such as heart disease or diabetes must be considered, but they don’t automatically rule out treatment.

• Goals of Care: If the aim is to reduce pain and maintain autonomy, age should not be a barrier.

• Risk Tolerance: Shared decision-making helps align treatment options with each patient’s comfort level and lifestyle expectations.

  
  

Evidence-Based Perspective

Studies consistently show that elderly patients can benefit from interventional treatments. For example, a 2022 study in Pain Medicine reported that spinal cord stimulation in patients aged 75+ was associated with meaningful improvements in pain and function—with complication rates similar to younger populations.

Special Considerations

• Bone quality in older adults may influence choices for procedures like vertebral augmentation or sacroiliac joint fusion.

• Polypharmacy and anticoagulants require careful coordination, but do not exclude procedures.

• Cognitive impairment may affect consent and follow-through but can often be managed with caregiver involvement.

  
  

Conclusion

You are never "too old" to want a better quality of life. Interventional pain treatments are not just for the young—they're for the motivated, the active, and the hopeful, regardless of age. At our clinic, we focus on individualized care, helping each patient—young or old—navigate their options with safety, dignity, and optimism.

Ready to See What’s Possible?

If you or a loved one is experiencing chronic pain and wondering about your options, schedule a consultation. Let’s find a treatment plan tailored to you—not just your age.

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Parkview Pain & Regenerative Institute has offices in Park City and Salt Lake City Utah. Click Here to request an appointment today!