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

Physical triggers of multisite body pain (MSP) have typically been the focus of 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 psychological distress. Statistical analyses of MSP, mental health, and demographic data found strong associations between MSP and depression and psychological distress. Marital status (women who had been widowed, separated, or unmarried) was the only demographic factor found to have a significant association with the experience of MSP. 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.