Clinical evaluation in musculoskeletal practice aims to identify the clinical pattern and the pathology of the patient, and is based on a patient medical history, sign and symptoms. Most patients are affected by non-specific disorders, as it is not possible to identify a single structure as the cause of their symptoms.
This is particularly so in chronic pain patients. Moreover, these patients often suffer from pain in several regions, without a clear common aetiology or cause. This article discusses papers published on the subject of diffuse musculoskeletal pain, and the potential clinical consequences.