Friday, October 7, 2011

Do You Think You Have Musculoskeletal Pain?

Musculoskeletal pain (M.P.), of the major subtypes of chronic pain, affects many Americans across the country.  In the most recent issue of Pain Pathways magazine (Fall 2011, page 43) a quick quiz is available that may help you figure out if you also suffer from chronic musculoskeletal pain. Some of the answers from the quiz (answers to quiz questions are found below) might be surprising!

-Musculoskeletal pain can affect muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, AND nerves

-This type of pain can also result from injury, overuse/overexertion, poor posture, and immobilization

-M.P. can also be associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, osteo and rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and other conditions

-True or false: musculoskeletal pain is rarely chronic. (FALSE, often chronic)

-Symptoms of M.P. include: localized or widespread pain that worsens with activity, aching or stiffness all over the body, deep/penetrating/dull bone pain, muscle pain characterized by twitching/burning/overexertion, and fatigue/difficulty sleeping

-True or false:  a physical exam is often enough information to correctly diagnose most cases of musculoskeletal pain (FALSE)

Additionally, the article stated some common non-medical treatments, such as hot/cold compresses, rest and activity reduction, immobilization (such as a brace, splint, or cast), regular strengthening and conditioning exercises, P.T. or O.T., and massage therapy.  They also outlined some common medication options, like OTC medications, local injections of anti-inflammatory drugs, prescription pain relievers, and prescription psychotropic drugs.

Attorney Doug Stoehr is a lawyer located in Altoona, PA who has successfully negotiated claims for those who have chronic pain as the result of personal injury.  For more information on him and his firm, please click here.

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