Association of sleep quality and chronification of musculoskeletal pain in an older adult: A case report

Abstract

BackgroundSleep disorders and chronic musculoskeletal pain are highly prevalent conditions that are often comorbid clinically. The role of sleep disorder on the chronification of musculoskeletal pain is well documented, although the mechanisms have not yet been fully established. ObjectivesHere we present a case study demonstrating the clinical comorbidity of sleep disorder with chronification of musculoskeletal pain in an older adult with clinical history of hypothyroidism. The aim of this case is to highlight important risk factors of age, gender and hypothyroidism, which the clinician should be aware of for their potential contributory role in the development of sleep disorder and chronification of musculoskeletal pain. Clinical featuresPatient presented with a flare-up of pain in right shoulder and neck that had been intermittently present for several years but of which the intensity had become increasingly worse over time. The patient was diagnosed with chronic right rotator cuff tendonitis and a grade III supraspinatus tear. Clinical history revealed that significant sleep disorder and hypothyroidism were also present in this case. Intervention and outcomesTreatment focused on relieving pain and restoring function to the right shoulder. Interventions including passive mobilization, manual ischemic trigger point therapy, and passive traction were applied. Patient also provided with diaphragmatic breathing exercises to help alleviate her sleep disorder. After 12 weeks patient reported decreased pain levels and improved ROM of the right shoulder. Patient also reported improved sleep, both in quality and quantity. ConclusionThis case demonstrates the importance of considering the association between sleep disorder and the chronification of musculoskeletal pain in older adults. This study highlights common potential risk factors of age, gender and hypothyroidism which may contribute to the development of these conditions in older patients.