Objective. The aim of this study was to determine the relation between clinical characteristics of musculoskeletal pain and the social support. Method. A non experimental method was used, with a quantitative approach, cross-sectional and correlational scope, in a sample with 70 or older adults –women and menwho participate of selfhelp groups in Bucaramanga, sample which was applied with the abbreviated version McGill Pain Questionnaire and the Social Support Questionnaire. Results. It was found that 59% of the participants describe the pain as uncomfortable, and the 57% as internal, whereas, 33% perceive emotional support and the 39% a practical support in a moderate manner. No correlation was found between the general emotional support and pain intensity index. Conclusion. It is found that there is no significant correlation between variables, however, 1 Producto del proyecto de investigacion “Factores psicosociales en el dolor osteomuscular en adultos mayores. Un estudio transcultural”. Avalado y financiado por la Direccion General de Investigaciones (DGI) de la Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana Seccional Bucaramanga, con el codigo 096-03153100 2 Psicologa 3 Doctoranda en Ciencias Psicologicas de la Universidad de la Habana, Cuba. Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, Seccional Bucaramanga, kilometro 7 via Piedecuesta. Correo de correspondencia: ara.cerquera@upb.edu.co LEIDY JOHANNA PLATA OSMA Y ARA MERCEDES CERQUERA CORDOBA 126 it is necessary to note that these kind of studies will help strengthen the understanding of the perception of pain and the variables that should be taken into account for its proper clinical management.