[Chronic widespread pain and tender points in low back pain: a population-based study]

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Epidemiology
• Pain Medicine

Context:

• Clinical observations suggest a frequent overlap between back pain (BP) and fibromyalgia (FMA).
• Population-based data were analyzed to investigate the hypothesis of FMA as an underlying cause of BP.
• The association between back pain severity, chronic widespread pain, and active tender points was examined.

Purpose:

• To test the hypothesis that fibromyalgia (FMA) is a frequent underlying condition for back pain (BP).
• To assess the relationship between back pain severity and indicators of fibromyalgia, including widespread pain and tender points.
• To explore the correlation between back pain, somatic complaints, and psychological distress.

Summary:

• A population survey of 3969 German residents (aged 25-74) in Luebeck was reanalyzed.
• Among participants with back pain, 12.6% reported chronic widespread pain.
• A significant association was found between back pain severity and the number of active tender points, as well as psychological distress.

Impact:

• The study does not support FMA as a common cause of back pain.
• A strong correlation exists between back pain severity, tender point count, and psychological distress.
• Severe chronic back pain may involve heightened pain sensitivity (allodynia/hyperalgesia) and increased distress, indicating a complex condition beyond localized pain.