In honor of October, the spookiest month of the year, it’s quite fitting to talk about skeletons. Specifically, let’s discuss some common skeletal diseases and disorders.
Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease, and causes brittle and weak bones due to low density. There aren’t many known causes, other than the factor of age. It currently affects 44 million – or approximately half of all – Americans aged 50 and older. Children can also be affected by juvenile osteoporosis, but it usually only affects older women. Unfortunately, it tends to be symptomless, and people don’t know they have it, until they fracture it by accident.
Osteonecrosis is a condition characterized by the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply. This can lead to the collapse of the bone and joint dysfunction. Common causes include trauma, prolonged use of corticosteroids, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions like sickle cell disease. Symptoms often include joint pain and stiffness, which can worsen over time. Early diagnosis and treatment, which may involve medication, physical therapy, or surgery, are crucial to prevent further joint damage and improve outcomes.
Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine that can occur in varying degrees. While it often develops during childhood or adolescence, it can affect individuals at any age. Symptoms can include uneven shoulders or hips, back pain, and in severe cases, respiratory issues. The exact cause of scoliosis remains unknown, but genetics may play a role. Treatment options depend on the severity of the curve and may include observation, bracing, or surgery to correct the curvature and alleviate associated complications. Early detection is key to effective management.
Arthritis is a general term for over 100 different inflammatory joint disorders that cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. The most common types are osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative joint disease often related to aging and wear-and-tear, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that can affect multiple joints and lead to joint damage. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain, and they may fluctuate over time. While there is no cure for arthritis, treatment options such as medications, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis and intervention are important to slow disease progression and minimize joint damage.
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