Clinical scenario related to cardiovascular system: is it possible to develop thoracic pain imitating a musculoskeletal disorder? A scoping review

BackgroundWhen assessing a patient presenting with thoracic pain its important for the physiotherapist to quickly understand if the cause is a musculoskeletal condition or a dysfunction of the cardiovascular and circulatory system. Promptly referring the patient is essential to identify potentially life-threatening conditions at an early stage. ObjectivesIdentifying the current state of knowledge regarding cardiovascular and circulatory systems conditions that generate a thoracic pain that resembles a musculoskeletal condition. Study DesignScoping review Eligibility criteriaThis review will incorporate studies encompassing any research design. Inclusion is limited to articles written in either English or Italian language. Our population of interest specifically includes patients experiencing thoracic pain, with no restrictions regarding age and gender, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the conditions impact across different demographics. The concept under investigation is the manifestation of symptoms in the thoracic region, which are attributed to cardiovascular disorders or dysfunctions. It is critical to our scope that we delineate the context by intentionally omitting studies set in emergency contexts. This exclusion criterion allows the review to narrow its focus on the tools employed in making differential diagnoses without relying on instrumental examinations, thus aiming to elucidate diagnostic strategies applicable in a non-emergent setting. Results Conclusions