The effect of exercise in patients with orthopaedic chronic pain

Abstract

Overview of the Topic: In the study carried out by the Malta Health Network in 2018, the data shows that 20% of the Maltese population suffers from chronic pain. Orthopaedics is the medical field that deals with the study and treatment of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine, joints and muscles. Chronic pain is a continuous pain that typically lasts more than six months (Tsang et al., 2008). This form of pain may persist even after the accident or disease that caused it. Pain signs remain present in the nervous system for weeks, months and even years. Anyone may experience chronic pain even though there is no prior injury or visible trauma to the body (McAllister, 2012). The Research Question: Is exercise effective in reducing pain in patients with orthopaedic chronic pain compared with no exercise? PICO Elements: Population (P) patients with chronic pain. Intervention (I) exercise. Comparison (C) no exercise and the final chosen Outcome (O) reducing pain. Method: To critically appraise the literature, the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tools was used. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were used to determine the papers' eligibility. Five studies were identified and used, all of which are systemic reviews with meta-analysis. Results: Although the studies show a significant reduction of pain in chronic pain patients who exercise, a clear conclusion cannot be drawn. The authors achieved these results by having the evidence pooled from the relevant Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs). Implications and recommendations: Every Maltese citizen who suffers from orthopaedic chronic pain would benefit if he/she increases the amount of exercise in their daily lifestyle since the literature gathered through this study shows that exercise is beneficial in such cases. Besides, it will help them prevent any metabolic syndrome and to keep them fit. Health Management has to guide practice for the best benefits. Further research using larger samples are recommended to be able to provide a clearer picture of exercise's role in reducing chronic pain.