Musculoskeletal pain

Abstract

Musculoskeletal pain affects different parts of the body (neck pain, limb pain, low back pain, joint pain, chronic widespread pain) and is a major reason for patient consultation. It mainly affects the elderly but can also affect other population groups regardless of age, gender, or economic status. It affects approximately 47% of the general population. It is mostly accompanied by emotional stress and a decline in physical function which affects the quality of life. Musculoskeletal pain can also lead to disability, decline in cognitive activity, falls and poor sleep. As much as musculoskeletal pain is associated with musculoskeletal conditions, healthcare practitioners should be aware that pain should be treated as a condition on its own and not only treat the underlying musculoskeletal conditions. Management includes both pharmacological and nonpharmacological approaches and it is important for healthcare practitioners to note that either approach might not be effective alone and a combination of approaches should be considered.