Background This cross-sectional study was conducted to obtain epidemiologic data on
chronic musculoskeletal pain in the Japanese people, and with it a better understanding of
the actual conditions and problems involved. Methods A questionnaire covering basic
information, chronic musculoskeletal pain, daily life, quality of life, and social loss was
prepared and mailed to 11507 individuals aged 18 years or older. Subjects were selected
randomly nationwide in accordance with the demographic composition of Japan. Results …

Background An epidemiological survey conducted in Japan in fiscal year 2010 revealed a
high prevalence of chronic musculoskeletal pain, low patient satisfaction with treatment, a
high incidence of protracted treatment lasting a year or more, and reduced quality of life. To
improve the current system for treating chronic musculoskeletal pain, it is important to
identify risk factors, including patient characteristics, for developing chronic pain. Thus, we
sought to determine the incidence of new chronic pain in the Japanese population, as well …