Pain medicine : the official journal of the American Academy of Pain Medicine
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To report a case in which pain preceded computer axial tomography (CT) and scintigraphic findings in an osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture. ⋯ The patient's pain preceded CT and scintigraphic evidence of the osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture. It is possible that pain is an early sign of impending osteoporotic compression fracture, or microtrabecular fracture, prior to anatomic and physiologic changes. Magnetic resonance imaging may be the imaging study of choice rather than bone scintigraphy in identification of noncollapsed osteoporotic compression fracture. Earlier identification and treatment of vertebral compression fractures may reduce kyphosis and associated sequelae.
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Pain represents one of the most important predictors of quality of life in patients with osteoarthritis (OA). Prior studies were conducted in hospital settings and/or failed to control important factors such as depression, obesity, or physical activity. Therefore, the aim of the study was to determine factors associated with pain intensity in a large sample of OA patients in primary care. ⋯ A variety of physical and psychological factors were associated with pain intensity. Appropriate pain treatment of OA patients in primary care should consider as many of these factors as possible. Further research is needed to assess if a more comprehensive and proactive approach will result in less pain and in increased quality of life.