CLIN SKILLS: MSK Systems Review

Question 1

MSK systems review

Answer 1

• Pain?
• Swelling?
• Morning pain?
• Pain when you move?
• Loss of motion - any movements that are painful? (e.g. ability to walk, lean over, sit up)
• Loss of function - any daily tasks that are painful? (e.g. brushing hair, getting changed)
• Deformity - any parts of your body that look different or changed shape?
• Muscular weakness?
• Instability - does it ever feel like your joints are about to ‘pop’ or give way?
• Changes in sensation - numbness, pins and needles?
• Systemic features e.g. fever, unintentional weight loss, fatigue, night sweats

Question 2

follow-up questions for swelling (MSK systems review)

Answer 2

• is it hard or soft?
• is it painful?
• has it changed over time?
• does pressing on it leave a mark?

Question 3

follow-up questions for morning pain (MSK systems review)

Answer 3

• duration
• is it better once you get moving?

Question 4

follow-up question for pain when moving (MSK systems review)

Answer 4

• is it better/worse at rest?