Chronic pain constitutes a significant issue affecting many older adults, and is associated with diminished quality of life, increased healthcare utilization, and greater dependence on medications. Traditional pain management therapies, including opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), pose substantial risks, such as addiction, gastrointestinal complications, and cardiovascular issues. Hence, the need for innovative and safer pain management strategies is paramount.

This Research Topic aims to explore the potential of psychedelic medicine and alternative treatments for managing geriatric pain. Specifically, we seek to investigate how substances like psilocybin, Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), and ketamine, among others, can be integrated into therapeutic regimens to alleviate chronic pain in older adults. Additionally, we will delve into other complementary approaches such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, mindfulness practices, and physical therapy.

Key Themes:

1. Mechanisms of Action: Understanding the neurobiological and psychological mechanisms through which psychedelic substances and alternative therapies alleviate chronic pain in older adults.

2. Clinical Efficacy: Examining the outcomes of case studies and clinical trials that assess the efficacy of psychedelic and alternative treatments in reducing geriatric pain.

3. Safety and Ethics: Evaluating the safety profiles and ethical considerations of using psychedelic substances in older patients. This includes potential side effects, contraindications, and long-term effects.

4. Quality of Life Improvements: Assessing how these treatments impact the overall quality of life, including physical functioning, emotional well-being, and social engagement of geriatric patients.

5. Integrative Approaches: Investigating the potential for combining psychedelic medicine with conventional pain management techniques to create comprehensive, multi-faceted treatment plans.

6. Policy and Access: Discussing the legal, regulatory, and accessibility challenges associated with implementing these treatments in mainstream geriatric care.

We invite researchers, clinicians, and practitioners to contribute original research articles, review papers, clinical case studies, and commentary pieces. Submissions should provide novel insights, robust data, and practical implementations that can advance our understanding and application of psychedelic and alternative treatments for geriatric pain. By fostering a comprehensive investigation into innovative pain management strategies, we hope this Research Topic will pave the way for more effective, safer, and holistic approaches to alleviating chronic pain in older populations.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Psychedelic Medicine and Alternative Treatments for Geriatric Pain