Skeletal system diseases

Skeletal system in humans consists of fused and individual bones supported and supplemented by ligaments, tendons, muscles and cartilage. Skeletal system serves many important functions, but primarily it provides the shape and form to the body, while supporting, protecting and allowing bodily movement. The skeletal system also produces blood cells and stores minerals. This complex network is composed of 206 bones and provides something like a cage to protect the soft inner organs. For example, the brain is protected by the skull, while the heart and lungs are protected by the ribcage. All the bones in the system work in coordination and any kind of problem in one part of the body can result in pain and obstruct normal daily activities. Genetic disorders, diseases, sports injuries and accidents may affect all parts of the skeletal system and prevent it from carrying out its function. Here are some of the most common skeletal system disorders.

Bursitis

Bursitis is the health condition characterized by the inflammation of one or more bursae (small sacs) of synovial fluid in the body. This disorder makes simple movement difficult and painful, as the movement relies upon the inflamed bursa. Repetitive movement and excessive pressure commonly cause bursitis.OsteoporosisOsteoporosis is one of the most common bone conditions, responsible for weakening of the bones. The bones affected with osteoporosis become weak, fragile, and more likely to break. Osteoporosis is commonly associated with post-menopausal women, but can also affect men, younger women and children.

Sprain

A sprain is an injury to ligaments, usually caused by stretching them beyond their normal limits. This kind of overstretching causes muscular tears, or strains, and causes severe pain, swelling, bruising, hemarthrosis and decreased ability to move.

Spina bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect caused by the incomplete closure of the embryonic neural tube. If the opening is large enough, this allows a portion of the spinal cord to protrude through the opening in the bones. Spina bifida usually appears in the lumbar and sacral areas.

ArthritisArthritis is an inflammatory condition that affects the joints of the body resulting in deformities and constant pain. The pain occurs due to the inflammation that affects the joint.Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a medical condition characterized with curvatures of the spine. The spine is usually curved from side to side and may look more like an "S" or a "C", rather than a straight line.Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone or bone marrow. There are several types of osteomyelitis, and they are classified in respect of the causative organism, the route, duration and anatomic location of the infection.Talipes Equinovarus

Talipes Equinovarus is a congenital deformity of the foot. It may affect only one foot or both. The affected foot appears rotated internally at the ankle. This disorder occurs in about one in every 1,000 live births.Rickets

Rickets is a softening of bones, usually seen in children, that develops as a result of malnutrition and a diet low in vitamin D. Osteomalacia is the term used to describe a similar condition occurring in adults.

KyphosisKyphosis is a curvature of the upper back which occurs as a result of degenerative diseases, developmental problems, osteoporosis with compression fractures of the vertebrae, or trauma. This disorder is characterized by bowing of the back and breathing difficulties.