Effect of the desensitization and reprocessing of information through eye movements Technique on Neuropathic and Migraine Chronic Pain in Older Adults: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Chronic pain is a pervasive global health challenge, causing significant suffering and impairing daily functioning despite advancements in understanding and treatment. Its prevalence is particularly noteworthy in developed regions such as Europe and Colombia, highlighting its broad societal impact. Existing management approaches, including pharmacotherapy, often provide inadequate relief, leaving many individuals with ongoing pain and psychological distress. The profound emotional toll of chronic pain underscores the need for innovative strategies addressing both its physical and emotional dimensions. Method: The search was carried out on Web of Science, Scopus and PubMed on March 2023, using the following search equation: “Older adult” AND “eye movement desensitization and reprocessing” AND “chronic pain” OR “neuropathic” OR “migraine”, with a date range from January 2014 to January 2024. The reporting follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta- Analyses (PRISMA) guideline for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Once the results were obtained, they were loaded onto the Tree of Science platform. Results: Limited research specifically targeting the efficacy of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in chronic neuropathic and migraine pain among older adults was found. While some studies showed promising results, methodological limitations and pain type heterogeneity highlighted the need for further investigation. Nonetheless, broader studies suggested the potential of EMDR in reducing pain perception and improving emotional well-being. Psychotherapeutic interventions, including mindfulness, also emerged as promising strategies. Conclusion: The extensive impact of chronic pain necessitates comprehensive management strategies. While pharmacotherapy offers relief, the multifaceted nature of pain requires multidimensional approaches. EMDR, along with psychotherapeutic modalities like mindfulness, holds promise in addressing both physical and emotional aspects of chronic pain. Further research, particularly focusing on specific pain types and older populations, is vital for informing evidence-based practices. Integrative approaches combining EMDR and mindfulness may offer holistic solutions to chronic pain management.

Keywords

• chronic pain
• emdr (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
• neuropathic pain
• migraine pain and older adults.