Psychosomatic Aspects of Musculoskeletal Disorders

Abstract

It is yet to be demonstrated that personality disorders precede organic changes or that shared personality characteristics are relevant to pathogenesis of organic musculoskeletal disease, but functional elements are present in rheumatic diseases and may be manifestations of psychogenic rheumatism. The patient's reactions to the disease, the physician, the environment and the attempts at treatment determine the effectiveness of therapy. Secondary gain may stand in the way of recovery.