Limb Pain: Medical History

Medical history (history of illness) represents an important component in the diagnosis of limb pain.

Family history

  • What is the general health of your family members?
  • Are there any muscular or neurological diseases in your family?

Social anamnesis

Current medical history/systemic history (somatic and psychological complaints).

  • How long has the pain been present? Has the pain changed? Become stronger?
  • Where exactly is the pain localized (local (localized)/diffuse (generalized))? Does the pain radiate?
  • What is the character of the pain? Sharp, dull, etc.?
  • Is the pain dependent on breathing?
  • Does the pain intensify or get better with exertion/movement?
  • When does the pain occur? Are you dependent on external factors such as stress, weather?
  • Do other symptoms occur in addition to the pain in the limbs?
  • Have you had an infection recently?

Vegetative anamnesis including nutritional anamnesis.

  • Do you drink alcohol? If so, what drink(s) and how many glasses per day?
  • Do you use drugs? If yes, what drugs and how often per day or per week?

Self history incl. medication history.