Disorders Of Muscular And Skeletal System: Definition, Types, Symptoms

The Musculoskeletal System

The muscular and skeletal systems are two of the most basic parts in the makeup of the human body. It facilitates movement, provides support, and protects the body's vital organs. These two systems are critical to sustaining the general health and functionality between them because the muscles allow for movement while the bones offer structural integrity to the body.

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This Story also Contains

1. The Musculoskeletal System
2. Muscular System
3. Skeletal System
4. Common Disorders Of The Muscular System
5. Common Disorders Of The Skeletal System
6. Diagnosis Of Muscular And Skeletal Disorders
7. Treatment And Management Strategies
8. Recommended Video On ‘Disorders Of Muscular And Skeletal System’

Muscular System

The muscular system is vital in the body assists in movement, and stability, and upholds posture.

Structure And Functions Of Muscles

• Composed of muscle fibers

• Provide motion by contracting and relaxing

• Help maintain posture and generate heat.

Types Of Muscles

• Skeletal Muscles: Voluntary muscles that are linked to bones and are responsible for the locomotion of the body.

• Cardiac Muscles: These are involuntary muscles found within the heart and are responsible for blood pumping.

• Smooth muscles: These are involuntary muscles located in the walls of the internal organs. They help in the process of digestion, blood flow, and similar other actions.

Skeletal System

• It provides the framework of the body, protects organs, and gives support to movement.

Structure And Function Of Bones

• Composed of a matrix of collagen and calcium phosphate

• Provide support and shape

• Protect vital organs

• Store minerals and produce blood cells

Types Of Bones

• Long Bones: For example, the femur, and humerus; provide strength, structure, and mobility.

• Short Bones: E.g., carpals, tarsals; provide some stability and support with little movement.

• Flat Bones: E.g., skull, ribs; protect internal organs and provide surfaces for muscle attachment.

• Irregular Bones: E.g., vertebrae, and pelvis; have complex shapes to protect the organs and support the body.

Common Disorders Of The Muscular System

Muscular disorders can affect mobility and, therefore, the quality of living considerably.

Muscular Dystrophy

• A group of genetic disorders involving muscle weakness and degeneration. For example, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

• Gradually progressing muscle weakness, with loss of mobility, and respiratory complications.

• Genetic Basis: Due to mutations in genes involved in the production of muscle proteins.

• Diagnostic Methods: Genetic testing, muscle biopsy, electromyography.

• Treatment Options and Management: Physical therapy, medications such as corticosteroids, assistive devices, and respiratory care.

Myasthenia Gravis

• A condition in which your body attacks healthy muscle tissue.

• Symptoms and Diagnosis: Muscle weakness, and fatigue; diagnosis through blood tests, EMG, and imaging.

• Treatment and Management: Medications, anticholinesterase, immunosuppressants, thymectomy.

Muscle Cramps And Strains

• Causes and Risk Factors: Overuse, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances.

• Symptoms and First Aid: Sudden sharp pain, muscle tightness; rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE).

• Prevention Strategies: Adequate hydration, stretching, and balanced nutrition.

Fibromyalgia

• A chronic disorder characterised by pervasive pain, persistent fatigue, and cognitive dysfunction.

• Possible Causes and Risk Factors: Genetically induced, infections, physical or emotional trauma.

• Treatment and Lifestyle Management: Medications, exercise, stress management, sleep hygiene.

Common Disorders Of The Skeletal System

Skeletal disorders can compromise structural integrity and mobility.

Osteoporosis

• A condition characterised by weak bones; risk factors include ageing, hormonal changes, and malnutrition.

• Bone pain, fracture, loss of height.

• Bone density tests (DEXA scan).

• Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, weight-bearing exercise, medications - bisphosphonates.

Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis: It is a degenerative joint disease.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune inflammatory disorder.

• Symptoms and Progression include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.

• The condition is mostly genetic. Other causes are ageing processes and injury to joints.

• The treatment options include medicines, physical therapy, and joint replacement surgery.

Bone Fractures

The details are given below:

Types Of Fractures

• Simple, compound, comminuted, greenstick

Symptoms And Diagnosis

• Pain, swelling, and an inability to move the affected area. It is diagnosed by taking X-rays.

• Treatment and Healing Process: Immobilisation, reduction, surgery, rehabilitation.

Rickets

• Causes and Symptoms: Deficiency of vitamin D causes soft bones; and skeletal deformities.

• Prevention and Treatment: Good intake of vitamin D and calcium, sunlight exposure, and supplementation.

Bone Cancer

• Osteosarcoma: Common in adolescents.

• Chondrosarcoma: More common in adults.

• Symptoms and Diagnosis: Pain, swelling, and fractures; diagnosed by imaging and biopsy.

• Treatment and Prognosis: Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy.

Joint Disorders

• The joint disorders mirror the mobility and quality of life.

• These are different conditions affecting the joints, such as arthritis, bursitis, and dislocations.

• Symptoms and Diagnosis: Pain, swelling, decreased range of motion. Diagnosed by clinical evaluation, and imaging.

• Treatment Options: Medications, physical therapy, joint injections, surgery.

Diagnosis Of Muscular And Skeletal Disorders

For a disorder to be effectively treated an accurate diagnosis has first to be made.

Imaging Techniques

• X-rays: Bone fractures and joint abnormalities can be visualised.

• MRI and CT Scans: Extensive images of soft tissues, bones, joints

• Ultrasound: It is used to study soft tissues. This test also guides injections.

Laboratory Tests

• Blood Tests: Assays for markers of inflammation, infectious diseases, and genetic disorders.

• Genetic Testing: Screen a patient for mutations resulting in the form of muscular dystrophy and other genetically congenital diseases.

• Muscle Biopsy: Examining muscle tissue under the microscope for irregularities.

Physical Examination

• Clinical Assessment: Observe the symptoms followed by taking a history of medical illnesses and conditions.

• Mobility and Strength Tests: Monitor range of motion, muscular strength, and joint motion and function.

Treatment And Management Strategies

Effective treatment and management would improve the measurements of outcomes of the patients.

• Medications

• Physical therapy

• Surgical interventions

• Lifestyle Changes

• Diet and Nutrition

• Exercise and Fitness

• Preventive Measures

Recommended Video On ‘Disorders Of Muscular And Skeletal System’