According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, pain is the body's warning system that alerts us something is wrong. Most forms of arthritis and musculoskeletal disorders are divided into two categories: acute and chronic.

Acute pain is temporary. It can last a few moments, but wanes as healing occurs. Some examples of acute pain are burns, cuts, and fractures.

Chronic pain ranges from mild to severe and can last months, weeks or years.

According to an October 24, 2003 Center for Disease Control report, nearly 70 million Americans (1 out of every 3 people) suffer from chronic pain.

Chronic pain may come from several sources: These may include inflammation of the synovial membrane (tissue that lines the joints), tendons, or the ligaments; muscle strain; and fatigue. A combination of these factors contributes to the intensity of the pain.

Factors that contribute to the pain include swelling within the joint, the amount of heat or redness present, or damage that has occurred within the joint.

Each individual has a different threshold and tolerance for pain, often affected by both physical and emotional factors.

When discussing pain with a doctor, you may use words like aching, burning, stinging, or throbbing. These words will give the doctor a clearer picture of the pain you are experiencing.

It may also be helpful to keep a pain diary to record activities surrounding the pain, as well as intensity and location, and whether the pain limited your activity.

Musculoskeletal pain can be treated a number of ways. A treatment plan for musculoskeletal pain is typically administered in a team approach, usually involving one or more of the following: medical doctor, rheumatologist, orthopedist, and physical and occupational therapists.

It is advisable that chronic pain be evaluated by a medical professional. Not all methods are proven effective in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders and a medical professional should be consulted before any pain management treatment options are considered.

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