Diagnosis of Amplified Musculoskeletal Pain Syndrome (AMPS)

Medical History

Doctors ask about the pain’s onset, intensity, and location, noting if it’s disproportionate to any injury or trigger.

They explore associated symptoms (e.g., fatigue, sleep issues) and stressors (e.g., school or family challenges).

Physical Exam

The doctor checks for tenderness, swelling, or skin changes (e.g., temperature or color) in affected areas.

Tests assess muscle strength, joint movement, and reflexes to rule out other conditions.

Ruling Out Other Causes

AMPS is diagnosed by excluding other conditions like arthritis, infections, or fractures.

Blood tests, X-rays, or MRIs may be used to ensure no other diseases are present, though results are typically normal in AMPS.

Key Diagnostic Features

Severe, persistent pain that doesn’t match physical findings.

Sensitivity to touch (allodynia) or heightened pain response (hyperalgesia).

Symptoms like swelling or skin changes, especially in complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), a type of AMPS.

Specialist Input

Pediatric rheumatologists or pain specialists may confirm the diagnosis.

Psychologists may assess stress or emotional factors that amplify pain.

Notes

AMPS is common in young people and can limit daily activities. Early diagnosis aids effective treatment, often involving a lot of physical therapy and counseling.