Orthopaedic deception: when psychiatric disorders mimic musculoskeletal conditions

Psychiatric disorders significantly impact orthopaedic practice, often manifesting in ways that can complicate diagnosis and treatment. This narrative review explores psychiatric conditions that mimic musculoskeletal disorders, including Conversion Disorder, Factitious Disorder, Somatic Symptom Disorder, and Malingering. These disorders present a range of challenges, from interfering with accurate diagnosis to contributing to suboptimal clinical outcomes and increased healthcare costs. Is fundamental the role of orthopaedic surgeons in recognizing these conditions, which can present as genuine musculoskeletal symptoms but have underlying psychiatric origins. It emphasizes the need for heightened awareness and proper training to avoid misdiagnosis and ensure timely, appropriate treatment. By examining current literature, the review provides a comprehensive overview of each disorder, detailing their clinical presentations, diagnostic criteria, and treatment strategies. The aim is to enhance orthopedic practitioners' ability to identify and manage these complex cases effectively, improving patient care and reducing the risk of unnecessary interventions.