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Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)  are conditions that affect the human body’s musculoskeletal system, namely, bones, muscles, tendons, joints, ligaments, blood vessels, etc. MSDs can cause pain and stiffness and also impair mobility. MSDs are very common with increasing age but can be cured with early detection and proper treatment. 

Symptoms of MSDs

Symptoms vary between people and the part of the body affected. Some of the common symptoms of MSDs are:

Pain

Pain can be mild to severe, or crippling pain around any specific joint or muscle.

Swelling

Inflammation and redness around joints or surrounding tissues can occur.

Stiffness

Stiffness of the joints that impairs movement is also a symptom to identify MSDs.

Muscle spasm

Spasms of the muscle coupled with pain can also occur.

Numbness

Numbness or a tingling sensation can occur in some forms of MSDs.

Disturbed sleep patterns

Pain that disturbs sleep regularly is also a cause of concern.

Common types of MSDs

Tendonitis

The thick tissues that connect muscles to bones are called tendons. Tendonitis is the burning sensation of the shoulder, elbow, ankle, knee, or wrist tendons.

Osteoarthritis

Due to the wear and tear of the protective cartilage at the ends of the bones, they tend to degenerate, causing osteoarthritis. This could result in pain, swelling, and stiffness of the joints.

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Numbness, tingling sensation, and pain in the hands and fingers occur when the median nerve running from the forearm to the hand compresses at the wrist. 

Fibromyalgia

This condition results in chronic muscular pain throughout the body, sleep disturbances, etc.

Osteoporosis

In this condition, bone density is reduced, leading to weak bones. They are prone to easy fractures.

Gout

When there is an accumulation of uric acid in the joints, it leads to a condition called gout. Severe pain, swelling, and redness in the joints are synonymous with gout.

Diagnosis of MSDs

You should approach a specialist soon after you experience any of the symptoms since the diagnosis of MSD is mainly based on them. Your medical specialist will perform a physical examination and may prescribe laboratory and imaging tests. 

Imaging tests may include X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasound examinations. Laboratory tests may include a blood test to analyze the levels of CBC, ESR, C-Reactive protein, etc. 

Your doctor will also enquire about your medical history and any recent accidents or injuries that may be relevant to your pain. 

Treatment mechanism

Your treatment is completely based on your symptoms and the diagnosis by your medical practitioner. The duration of treatment will also depend on the severity of your disorder. Some common treatment methodologies are:

• OTC medications (analgesics) for reducing pain
• Weight management exercises
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Corticosteroid injections
• Surgery, if needed
• Assistive devices to facilitate movement

Always seek guidance from a reputed medical practitioner who specialises in treating MSDs. Since bones and joints deteriorate with age, it is important to take good care by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, being safe in job-related activities, and consulting a specialist when the need arises are ways to keep MSDs away.

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