/sci/ - Science & Math

Hello /sci/,

I was hoping we could have a discussion on the current state of medical science when it comes to conditions like "chronic pain" and its relevance given the human condition as we know it today (impulsive, instant gratification-seeking, unable to claim personal responsibility, etc...). I don't intend this post to be of a political nature but it will likely lean towards that direction since it will be a commentary of sorts on healthcare as well.

As you may or not be aware, Fibromyalgia is psychological condition where an individual experiences widespread pain and increased sensitivity to said pain. Research has shown that there are absolutely no observable markers that would explain the presence of said pain. Absolutely nothing. On paper, these people are completely normal. This may be hard to believe, but the Fibromyalgia diagnosis is more common in women than men by about a ratio of 9:1. It's commonly agreed upon by those "in the know" that these conditions are normal side effects of leading a stressed, sedentary, and obesity or poor diet. The issue is that the healthcare system around the world is generally unable to acknowledge this and engages in the cycle of unwarranted diagnoses, unwarranted prescriptions, and unwarranted surgeries.

Do you have any idea just how much "chronic pain" or "chronic back pain" cases comprise workers compensation? How about social security/disability? Can you imagine how much of a drag these self-inflicted conditions can have on systems like the NHS? Where people just coast doctor to doctor, appointment to appointment, seeking treatment for something that can easily be corrected through a barbell and a modicum of effort?

part 1.