Case 1: A 62-year-old female complains of pain over several finger joints over bilateral hands that is worse upon waking up and severe enough that it does not allow her to do much gardening. She also complains of feeling tired most of the time and is having trouble sleeping.

Case 2: A 38-year-old male construction worker complains of severe pain to his right lower back. States he woke up with the pain after an especially difficult workday. He takes Motrin but it offers little relief.

Case 3: A 58-year-old obese man complains of pain in his left knee. The pain seems to be unrelenting; he says it is better when he rests but gets stiff when he rests too long.

For the case you have chosen, post to the discussion:

• Discuss what questions you would ask the patient, what physical exam elements you would include, and what further testing you would want to have performed.
• In SOAP format, list: 
  • Pertinent positive findings that validate your main diagnosis
  • Pertinent negative findings that make you think of other differential diagnoses
  • Treatment plan, including: pharmacotherapy with complementary and OTC therapy, diagnostics (labs and testing), health education and lifestyle changes, age-appropriate preventive care, and follow-up to this visit.
• Use at least one scholarly source other than your textbook to connect your response to national guidelines and evidence-based research in support of your ideas.
• Initial post must have a minimum of 300 words, excluding references.
• In your peer replies, please reply to at least one peer who chose a different case study.