European journal of pain : EJP
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Review Meta Analysis
Age-related changes in pain sensitivity in healthy humans: A systematic review with meta-analysis.
Literature suggests that pain perception diminishes in old age. The most recent review used search strategies conducted over a decade ago and concluded that study findings were equivocal. The aim of this systematic review, with meta-analysis, was to determine age-related changes in pain sensitivity in healthy pain-free adults, children and adolescents. ⋯ There was substantial statistical and methodological heterogeneity. There is tentative evidence that pressure pain threshold was lower in old adults compared with younger adults, with no differences in heat pain thresholds. Further studies are needed.