[Peripheral pain syndrome]

The bases for peripheral pain syndromes of the musculoskeletal system, which are common and often difficult to treat, involve complex neurophysiologic changes. They are generally very troublesome for the patient and result in long-term disability and absence from work and sport activities. As all levels of the pain perception system are involved, evaluation has to take place at the peripheral, spinal and central nervous system levels. Treatment requires a concept including all affected structures. If this is not the case, an inefficient series of monotherapies often results, which increases the risk of pain chronification in these patients similar to the situation found for low back pain. The biomechanical-functional aspect is of great importance for the lower extremities. This point of view, which is familiar to the orthopedist, reveals a clear connection between pain and disturbed function, permitting a clear concept for a successful therapy.