Musculoskeletalpain can affectbones,joints,ligaments,tendons, andmuscles.
To best treat your pain, it’s crucial to determine which structures are being affected.
This article discusses musculoskeletal pain, its potential causes, and treatment options.
South_agency / Getty Images
South_agency / Getty Images
What Does Musculoskeletal Pain Feel Like?
Musculoskeletal pain is typically localized to the body part affected by an injury or disease.
When this happens, you might experience symptoms such as tingling or numbness.
What Causes Musculoskeletal Pain?
Injuries to the bones, ligaments, tendons, or muscles often cause musculoskeletal pain.
However, there are also non-musculoskeletal contributors to pain.
Musculoskeletal Disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders are often brought on by trauma or repetitive use.
Bone Pain
Traumatic injuries are the most common cause of bone pain.
However, it can also occur with conditions such as infections or cancer.
This throw in of pain is often described as penetrating, dull, and deep.
Muscle Pain (Myalgia)
Muscle painormyalgiais often described as cramps or spasms.
This jot down of pain is exacerbated with movement and improves with rest.
Joint Pain
Joint painalso calledarthralgiahas many different causes.
Joint pain can be acute (short-lasting) or chronic (lasting more than 12 weeks).
Back Pain
Back painis very common.
Low-back pain is the leading cause of disability globally.
Back pain can feel dull and achy or be sharp.
The exact cause of this condition is unknown.
Pain from fibromyalgia can come and go or last all day.
It can feel like aching, soreness, stiffness, gnawing, or burning pain.
Diagnosis of Musculoskeletal Pain
Diagnosis of musculoskeletal pain begins with a physical examination by a healthcare provider.
Hands-On Therapy
Hands-on therapy is a standard treatment for musculoskeletal conditions.
Several types of health professionals can help relieve symptoms, such asphysical therapists,massage therapists, andchiropractors.
Examples of hands-on therapy interventions include massage, stretching, and joint manipulation.
In addition, physical therapists can provide exercises and othermodalitiesto reduce pain and help prevent injury recurrence.
Complementary Therapies
Complementary therapies can also be helpful for treating musculoskeletal conditions.
Additional medication treatment options includetopical pain-relieving creamssuch asAspercremeor Biofreezeand cortisone injections.
Aids and Devices
Musculoskeletal disorders can make everyday life more difficult.
An occupational therapist can assist you in determining which aids might be appropriate for your specific condition.
Assistive deviceslike a walker or cane may help improve mobility.
A physical therapist can help you determine which equipment is appropriate and how to use it safely.
Surgery
When conservative treatment fails, musculoskeletal conditions might require surgery.
For example, severe osteoarthritis in the knee is frequently treated withjoint replacement surgery.
Torn tendons in the shoulder mightrequire rotator cuff repair.
Severe broken bones might require anORIFopen reduction internal fixationsurgery.
Examples of helpful lifestyle and self-care strategies are:
Summary
Musculoskeletal pain is common.
It most often occurs from injury or with repetitive tasks.
Many healthcare providers order imaging, such as X-rays and MRIs, to help diagnose these conditions.
Pain usually improves with conservative treatment, such as medications, hands-on therapy, and activity modifications.
In severe cases, surgery is required.
Seeking medical attention early on can help increase your chances of improvement with conservative treatment.
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