What is Musculoskeletal Pain?
Musculoskeletal pain affects the bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. Pain can be localized in one area, or widespread.
3 stages of healing:
1) Acute ( ‘Inflammatory Stage’): Immediate t0 2-5 days or more.
– Natural response of body to release chemicals to help in reducing the pain. Scar tissue starts to form and resting with gentle physiotherapy (eg ultrasound, electrotherapy) is recommended.
2) Subacute (‘Proliferative Stage’): 2 days to 4 weeks or more.
– Healing takes place and body grows new tissues to repair damaged structures. Scar tissues continue to form. Since tissues are new and fragile, injury/pain area must be very careful not to damage them as it may cause more pain. Simple movement exercises may be appropriate but is best limited to a physiotherapist’s skilled hands.
3) Chronic (‘Remodeling Stage’): 4 weeks to 2years or more.
– Scar tissues is remodelled and may not be as strong as original. This is a important time when patient takes an active role in rehabilitating injury with physiotherapists.
What are the symptoms of musculoskeletal pain?
Symptoms of musculoskeletal pain depend on whether the pain is caused by an injury or overuse and whether it is chronic or acute. The symptoms can also differ from person to person.
Common symptoms:
- Localized or widespread pain, may worsen with movement.
- Aching, stiffness or soreness
- Feeling of muscles ’pulled or overworked’
- General fatigue or tiredness
- Sleep disturbances
- Reduced daily activities or function
Dfferent types of Musculoskeletal Pain:
