Longnecker's Anesthesiology > Part 8. Care of the Chronic Pain Patient > Chapter 91. Common Pain Syndromes Basem Hamid, MD

Key Points

"1. Central sensitization is a cardinal element of chronic pain syndromes.

2. Treatment of chronic pain should be multidisciplinary and aim for function restoration.

3. Myofascial pain syndromes are characterized by presence of trigger points.

4. Fibromyalgia is characterized by the presence of tender points.

5. Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disorder, is one of the most common chronic diseases in the elderly, and is a leading cause of disability.

6. Tricyclic antidepressants and antiepileptic drugs are good first-line options for treatment of most neuropathic pain syndromes.

7. Treatment of complex regional pain syndrome remains controversial but should start early and focus on mobility of the affected limb.

8. Neck and back pain can be generated by different anatomic structures, which are targeted in the treatment plan.

9. International Headache Society guidelines are useful tools for the diagnosis of different headache syndromes.

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