Chronic Pain in Bones and Joints Affects Over 100 Million Americans

According to the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, an estimated 100 million Americans experience chronic musculoskeletal pain of the bones, joints, and muscles. Such pain is the main reason for primary care visits in the United States.

The AAOS has acknowledged the epidemic of chronic pain and they seek to address the issue with more care and diligence. Richard L. Uhl, M.D., is an orthopaedic surgeon at Albany Medical Center in Albany, New York, and is one of many concerned doctors who believe chronic pain needs to be more carefully and properly treated.

"Given its prevalence, and the profound economic implications of chronic pain on both healthcare costs and lost productivity, we have a duty to be proficient in its diagnosis and care," said Uhl in this AAOS news release.

But Uhl and his fellow orthopaedic colleagues are not the only ones trying to inform the everyday American about how to deal with and treat chronic pain. Everyday Health publishes newsletters to promote healthier and more responsible lifestyles. In their "10 Ways to Treat Musculoskeletal Pain" article, author Dennis Thompson Jr. lays out a comprehensive list to help alleviate the pain suffered by many Americans. He lists icing, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesic creams, physical therapy, osteopathic manipulation therapy, chiropractic care, muscle strengthening and stretching, therapeutic massages, acupuncture, and relaxation as options for treating musculoskeletal pain.

On a similar note, the AAOS provides information for pain patients to be aware of, and also for others to take note of before it's too late. For example, they found that lower back pain affects up to 80% of Americans at some point in their life. Additionally, chronic knee, hip, and shoulder pain as a result of degenerative processes is frequent as well. However, this does not mean you will be affected by these ailments. There is a way that they can be avoided and remedied.

To read more about chronic pain management options, visit this AAOS news release to get information from the experts.