Associations of multisite pain with mental ill health among women in North India

Abstract

Physical triggers of multisite pain (MSP) have typically been the focus if treatment regimens for MSP in low and middle income countries (LMICS). We explored the non-physical dimension of MSP, particularly the presence of mental ill health and other possible risk factors. We conducted a case-control study among 140 female participants in North India in early 2019. We used structured interviews to assess pain, and validated mental health questionnaires to determine presence of depression and neurotic disorders. Statistical analyses of multisite pain, mental health and demographic data found strong associations between multisite pain and depression and neurotic disorder. Marital status (women who had been widowed, separated or unmarried) was the only demographic factor found to have a significant association with the experience multisite pain. We conclude that non-physical factors such as mental health need to be considered by treating practitioners, and included within national treatment guidelines in LMICs such as India.