Abstract
Persistent symptoms, physical signs, and abnormal test results after acute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) illness have emerged as a significant problem in the current and ongoing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus pandemic. Finding a rational balance between compelling subjective symptoms and limited objective findings in patients with post-COVID-19 conditions is challenging. We advise caution in adopting attributions, explanations, and management strategies, and especially in conferring formal disability status, for these disorders until we understand them more completely. The prevalent uncertainties threaten both overevaluation and overtreatment, with substantial personal and societal consequences, and all stakeholders need to be both intellectually open and cautious going forward. This article highlights several concerns in evaluating and treating patients with enduring COVID-19-related illness.
Abstract
Evidence shows that chronic opioid therapy is usually not beneficial; weaning patients off opioids many times results in less pain and better function, and opioid-induced hyperalgesia is real and frequent. Further evidence suggests that surgical outcomes are better if patients are weaned off opioids before surgery, and that the chronic use of opioids may adversely alter the assessment of maximum medical improvement (MMI).
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus affects the mental health of many. Isolation, fear of infection, and social distancing may affect psychological functioning. Research continues to evolve and reveal the psychological symptoms reported by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. Depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and psychosis have been reported in the literature for COVID-19 patients. Potential preliminary treatment recommendations include various forms of psychotherapy, such as dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. More research should be done regarding other additional treatment recommendations that may facilitate psychological healing in COVID-19 patients.
Abstract
Claims of occupational psychiatric disability have increased considerably over the past 20 years. To avoid psychiatric disability overdiagnosis, it is important to improve the clinical assessment of mental health work disability. This article discusses general disability issues and their impact on individual well-being, social participation, and frequently associated poverty. It defines the difference between impairment assessment and disability assessment, explores three common disability models, and raises issues about psychiatric disability and its potential overdiagnosis.
