NURS 6512 Wk 8 Assessing Muscoskeletal Pain
The body is constantly sending signals about its health. One of the most easily recognized signals is pain. Musculoskeletal conditions comprise one of the leading causes of severe long-term pain in patients. The musculoskeletal system is an elaborate system of interconnected levers that provide the body with support and mobility. Because of the interconnectedness of the musculoskeletal system, identifying the causes of pain can be challenging. Accurately interpreting the cause of musculoskeletal pain requires an assessment process informed by patient history and physical exams.NURS 6512 Wk 8 Assessing Muscoskeletal Pain
In this Discussion, you will consider case studies that describe abnormal findings in patients seen in a clinical setting.
Note: By Day 1 of this week, your Instructor will have assigned you to one of the following specific case studies for this Discussion. Also, your Discussion post should be in the Episodic/Focused SOAP Note format, rather than the traditional narrative style Discussion posting format. Refer to Chapter 2 of the Sullivan text and the Episodic/Focused SOAP Template in the Week 5 Learning Resources for guidance. Remember that all Episodic/Focused SOAP notes have specific data included in every patient case.
Case 1: Back Pain
A 42-year-old male reports pain in his lower back for the past month. The pain sometimes radiates to his left leg. In determining the cause of the back pain, based on your knowledge of anatomy, what nerve roots might be involved? How would you test for each of them? What other symptoms need to be explored? What are your differential diagnoses for acute low back pain? Consider the possible origins using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) guidelines as a framework. What physical examination will you perform? What special maneuvers will you perform?
spine
Case 2: Ankle Pain
A 46-year-old female reports pain in both of her ankles, but she is more concerned about her right ankle. She was playing soccer over the weekend and heard a “pop.” She is able to bear weight, but it is uncomfortable. In determining the cause of the ankle pain, based on your knowledge of anatomy, what foot structures are likely involved? What other symptoms need to be explored? What are your differential diagnoses for ankle pain? What physical examination will you perform? What special maneuvers will you perform? Should you apply the Ottowa ankle rules to determine if you need additional testing?NURS 6512 Wk 8 Assessing Muscoskeletal Painankle
Case 3: Knee Pain
A 15-year-old male reports dull pain in both knees. Sometimes one or both knees click, and the patient describes a catching sensation under the patella. In determining the causes of the knee pain, what additional history do you need? What categories can you use to differentiate knee pain? What are your specific differential diagnoses for knee pain? What physical examination will you perform? What anatomic structures are you assessing as part of the physical examination? What special maneuvers will you perform?
knee
To prepare:
With regard to the case study you were assigned:
Review this week’s Learning Resources, and consider the insights they provide about the case study.
Consider what history would be necessary to collect from the patient in the case study you were assigned.
Consider what physical exams and diagnostic tests would be appropriate to gather more information about the patient’s condition. How would the results be used to make a diagnosis?
Identify at least five possible conditions that may be considered in a differential diagnosis for the patient.
Note: Before you submit your initial post, replace the subject line (“Discussion – Week 8”) with “Review of Case Study ___.” Fill in the blank with the number of the case study you were assigned.
By Day 3
Post an episodic/focused note about the patient in the case study to which you were assigned using the episodic/focused note template provided in week 5 resources. Provide evidence from the literature to support diagnostic tests that would be appropriate for each case. List five different possible conditions for the patient’s differential diagnosis and justify why you selected each.NURS 6512 Wk 8 Assessing Muscoskeletal Pain
Note: For this Discussion, you are required to complete your initial post before you will be able to view and respond to your colleagues’ postings. Begin by clicking on the “Post to Discussion Question” link and then select “Create Thread” to complete your initial post. Remember, once you click on Submit, you cannot delete or edit your own posts, and you cannot post anonymously. Please check your post carefully before clicking on Submit!
Read a selection of your colleagues’ responses.
By Day 6
Respond to at least two of your colleagues on 2 different days who were assigned different case studies than you. Analyze the possible conditions from your colleagues’ differential diagnoses. Determine which of the conditions you would reject and why. Identify the most likely condition, and justify your reasoning.
Muscle and joint pain are very common among American adults, with approximately 100 million people suffering from chronic pain of some kind in the U.S. Musculoskeletal pain in Canal Fulton and Canton can occur as the result of many causes, the most common of which are injuries, birth deformities, and underlying illnesses like arthritis. Pain occurs when some component of the musculoskeletal system, such as the joints or muscles, becomes inflamed or damaged. But before doctors can treat symptoms, they must first identify the source of pain. An exam can accurately detect the presence of scar tissues, joint degeneration, fractures, torn ligaments, and other complications responsible for pain. Based on the results of your assessment, your doctor or therapist can develop a treatment plan designed to alleviate symptoms and facilitate healing when possible.
What should I expect during Canal Fulton and Canton musculoskeletal pain assessment and treatment?
Musculoskeletal pain assessments usually being with a brief medical history and interview about chronic symptoms. Your doctor or therapist will proceed with a physical examination and additional tests based on the location, intensity and frequency of your pain. For example, if a fracture is suspected, an x-ray may be necessary. If the pain seems to stem from musculoskeletal tissues, MRI imaging may be required to make an accurate diagnosis. Treatment is always customized according to each patient’s needs. Often, musculoskeletal treatments involve a combination of therapies, like physical therapy, joint injections, and pain medications.NURS 6512 Wk 8 Assessing Muscoskeletal Pain
Is there anything I can do to help facilitate treatment?
Yes. Be honest with your doctor or therapist about your medical history and any injuries you may have sustained. Do not wait for pain to worsen before getting help, as early diagnosis and treatment can lead to a better outcome. Finally, follow your doctor or therapists instructions for care, which vary from patient to patient. This may include getting more rest, avoiding strenuous activities, or even engaging in moderate stretching and exercise.NURS 6512 Wk 8 Assessing Muscoskeletal Pain