Skeletal system diseases can cause pain and movement difficulties, along with a variety of other symptoms. Common types of skeletal system diseases include arthritis, osteoporosis, and bursitis. Other skeletal system diseases may include rickets, poliomyelitis, or spina bifida. Some of these diseases are present at birth, while others may develop due to injury, illness, or as a natural part of aging.
Arthritis is among the most common types of skeletal system diseases. Arthritis is a term used to describe a variety of medical conditions that cause pain and swelling in the various joints of the body. Treatment for arthritis often involves the use of over-the-counter or prescription medications as well as gentle exercises and dietary changes.
Osteoporosis and bursitis are other types of skeletal system diseases. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes the bones to become brittle and break easily, most likely due to inadequate amounts of calcium and phosphorous in the bones. Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa, the protective fluid-filled sacs located between tendons and bones or between tendons and skin. Treatment may include a combination of dietary and lifestyle changes as well as medications and exercise therapy.
Rickets is also among the possible skeletal system diseases. This is a nutritional disorder caused by a deficiency in calcium, phosphate, or vitamin D. Common symptoms include bone pain, dental deformities, or weakened bones, which may increase the risks of fracture. Dietary changes are usually sufficient to treat this condition, although supportive devices, such as braces, may sometimes be used to prevent deformities, especially in children.
Poliomyelitis, commonly referred to as polio, is another of the skeletal system diseases. Polio is typically caused by a virus and may lead to partial or complete paralysis. Polio symptoms may include fatigue, fever, or muscle stiffness. Some patients may experience a painful skin rash or behavioral changes. There is no cure for polio, so treatment is aimed at specific symptoms.
Spina bifida is also among the possible skeletal system diseases. Spina bifida is a type of birth defect in which the spinal canal and backbone do not completely close before birth. Symptoms may include a loss of bowel or bladder control, paralysis, or a buildup of fluid on the brain. Treatment may include the use of prescription medications such as antibiotics or surgery to repair the defect. Genetic counseling may be recommended for future pregnancies because this condition is a birth defect that may have a genetic component.
|
KaBoom
Post 3 |
@ceilingcat - A lot of the diseases mentioned in this article are pretty common. Luckily, at least in the United States, polio isn't that common anymore. I'm glad, because polio sounds like one of the worst ones. It can cause paralysis and there is no cure for it. |
|
ceilingcat
Post 2 |
@strawCake - I think skeletal system diseases are pretty common in general. My dad actually has arthritis pretty badly. I know he takes medication for it that is somewhat helpful but it still bothers him sometimes.
|
|
strawCake
Post 1 |
I know osteoporosis is a disease of the skeletal system that is most common in women. In fact, my grandmother has osteoporosis!
The last time I went to my doctor for my yearly physical she recommended that I start taking calcium supplements. Apparently now experts suggest that women start taking calcium even in their mid-twenties to prevent osteoporosis.
I added a chocolate flavored calcium chew to my daily supplement regimen. Hopefully this will help prevent me from getting osteoporosis later on in life!
|
