Question

51 yo F referred for evaluation. 10 year history of chronic pain that she describes as head to toe aching, twisting, and sometimes burning that involved several large muscle groups.Most appropriate management?

Answer 1

The appropriate management of chronic pain in large muscle groups includes a comprehensive evaluation, possibly by a rheumatologist, and could involve anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and specific treatments for neuropathic pain.

Step-by-step explanation:

The management of chronic pain involving large muscle groups, described as aching, twisting, and sometimes burning, should initially include a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. Given the complexity of chronic pain and potential underlying conditions, a multidisciplinary approach might be necessary, which could involve a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. Potential strategies may include the use of anti-inflammatory medications, such as NSAIDs, to manage muscle pain, along with adjunct therapies like physical therapy, occupational therapy, and possibly relaxation therapy.

Furthermore, the exploration of underlying causative factors for the pain is crucial. A referral to a specialist, such as a rheumatologist, may be warranted to assess for musculoskeletal diseases. Since chronic pain can sometimes be neuropathic in nature, considering this aspect of pain management is also important, which may lead to considering treatments like analgesic medications or more invasive options such as deep brain stimulation if conventional methods are not effective. The most appropriate management should be individualized, taking into account the severity of pain, any accompanying medical and psychological conditions, and the responsiveness to initial treatment strategies.