This article presents an evidence-based algorithm to assist primary care providers with the diagnosis and management of lateral hip and thigh pain in older adults.
Pain in the lower
back has an abundance of causes. This research article puts light in how
lateral hip and thigh pain can contribute to and coexist with chronic low back
pain in the elderly individuals. It has pointed out the potential complexities
in identifying the pain generator and how importance is the implementation of
right treatment.
This article
presents an evidence-based algorithm to assist primary care providers with the
diagnosis and management of lateral hip and thigh pain in older adults. It is
part of a series that focuses on coexisting pain patterns and contributors to
chronic low back pain (CLBP) in the aging population. The objective of the
series is to encourage clinicians to take a holistic approach when evaluating
and treating CLBP in older adults.
A content expert
panel and a primary care panel collaboratively used the modified Delphi
approach to iteratively develop an evidence-based diagnostic and treatment
algorithm. The panelists included physiatrists, geriatricians, internists, and
physical therapists who treat both civilians and Veterans, and the algorithm
was developed so that all required resources are available within the Veterans
Health Administration system. An illustrative patient case was chosen from one
of the author’s clinical practices to demonstrate the reasoning behind
principles presented in the algorithm.
An algorithm was
developed which logically outlines evidence-based diagnostic and therapeutic
recommendations for lateral hip and thigh pain in older adults. A case is
presented which highlights the potential complexities of identifying the true
pain generator and the importance of implementing proper treatment.
Lateral hip and
thigh pain in older adults can contribute to and coexist with CLBP.
Distinguishing the true cause(s) of pain from potentially a myriad of
asymptomatic degenerative changes can be challenging, but a systematic approach
can assist in identifying and treating some of the most common causes.
Pain Medicine
Deconstructing Chronic Low Back Pain in the Older Adult—Step by Step Evidence and Expert-Based Recommendations for Evaluation and Treatment. Part VIII: Lateral Hip and Thigh Pain
Monica Rho et al.
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