Obesity and Chronic Pain Linked

Comorbid pain and obesity are linked to family history and mood disorders, according to a study published in The Journal of Pain.

Researchers from the University of California San Diego, University of Washington and Veterans’ Affairs San Diego Healthcare System evaluated the influence of family history and psychological factors on the relationship between obesity and chronic pain. The team used data from large community-based samples of twins.

The data revealed that overweight or obese twins were reported more cases of physician-diagnosed low back pain, tension or migraine headaches, fibromyalgia, and abdominal and widespread pain. Depression and family history were also found to play a significant role in linking high body mass index and pain symptoms.