Musculoskeletal Pain

Musculoskeletal pain can affect anyone and is often caused by injuries to the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, or nerves. Common causes include jerking movements, car accidents, falls, fractures, sprains, dislocations, and direct blows to the muscle.

Symptoms of musculoskeletal pain can vary but typically involve an overall body ache. Other symptoms may include twitching or burning muscles, muscles feeling overworked or pulled, pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. The exact symptoms can vary from person to person but tend to be similar.

There are various causes of musculoskeletal pain. It can result from normal wear and tear due to strenuous activities or direct trauma to an area, such as auto accidents, fractures, falls, dislocations, sprains, jerking movements, or direct blows to the muscle. Poor posture or body mechanics can also contribute to spinal alignment problems and muscle shortening, leading to pain in other muscles due to misuse. Immobilization, repetitive movements, postural strain, and overuse of muscles are other potential causes.

To diagnose musculoskeletal pain, your doctor will gather your complete medical history, including any prior accidents or incidents that may have triggered the pain. A physical examination will be conducted to assess for any underlying illnesses that could be causing the pain. Your doctor will ask about the onset, location, and nature of the pain.

Treatment for musculoskeletal pain focuses on relieving symptoms and promoting recovery. Depending on your specific symptoms, a combination of manual therapy and medication may be recommended. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation. Sleep aids may be prescribed for sleep disturbances. For individuals with fibromyalgia, medication to increase serotonin and norepinephrine levels, which can improve sleep, immune system function, and pain, may be prescribed.

Other treatment options may include chiropractic care, physical therapy, muscle strengthening exercises and stretches, and injections with anti-inflammatory or anesthetic agents in the most painful areas. The specific treatments will depend on the severity and individual needs of the patient.