Pain that affects muscles, bones, and related ligaments and tendons is referred to as musculoskeletal pain. Since such pain can have multiple sources, from sudden trauma to progressive conditions like Parkinson’s disease, treatment is typically based on the underlying cause of the discomfort rather than just the symptoms presented. Here are the basics on musculoskeletal pain.
Possible Causes of Musculoskeletal Pain
Musculoskeletal pain can be caused by everyday wear and tear on muscles and bones over time (e.g., inflammation-based conditions like arthritis and degenerative disc disease). Sudden falls, jerky (unnatural) movements, fractures, sprains, and dislocations can also result in intermittent or prolonged discomfort. Additional sources of musculoskeletal pain may include:- Prolonged immobility (often while recovering from surgery or during a lengthy illness)
- Poor posture (affecting spinal alignment)
- Fibromyalgia (a heightened, painful response to pressure)
- Amplified musculoskeletal pain syndrome (sporadic episodes of pain occurring anywhere within the body)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Parkinson’s disease