14.4 - Health Issues Related to the Human Musculoskeletal System

Diseases and Disorders

Osteoporosis

• Bone disorder characterised by weak bones that break easily.
• With age, the rate of calcium loss exceeds the rate of calcium absorption, reducing bone mass or density.
• Contributing factors: lack of exercise; low intake of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D.
• Common among women after menopause because the oestrogen level decreases.
• Oestrogen helps the body absorb calcium and reduces calcium loss from bones; a low oestrogen level therefore reduces bone density.
• Symptoms: fragile bones, reduced height, and stooped posture.
• Bones become thinner, more brittle, and more porous.

Osteomalacia and Rickets

• Osteomalacia: soft bone condition caused by a lack of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D; occurs among adults, especially pregnant women.
• Rickets: osteomalacia in children; softens and weakens children’s bones, causing bone defects.

Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis is common among the elderly.
• Caused by decreased synovial fluid and wear and tear of cartilage in certain joints.
• Cartilage becomes thinner; ligaments shorten and lose some elasticity.
• Affected joints, such as the knee, become swollen, painful, and less flexible.
• Restricts daily activities such as walking.

Scoliosis

• Vertebral column bends sideways, forming an S or C shape when viewed from the back.
• May be caused by a genetic factor or abnormal growth of the vertebral column during puberty.

Practices to Maintain a Healthy Musculoskeletal System

Good Body Posture

• Posture is body position when sitting, lying, walking, and standing.
• Avoid slouching when standing or sitting.
• Slouching places pressure on and misaligns the vertebral column; this prevents blood circulation and suppresses nerves and vital organs.

Proper Attire

• Wear suitable, comfortable, loose clothing that does not restrict blood circulation or affect the musculoskeletal system.
• Wear suitable, low-heeled, cushioned shoes to support and prevent injury to the vertebral column.

Exercise

• Strengthens joint structure.
• Increases the flexibility of muscles and ligaments.
• Increases bone strength and bone mineral deposits among adults.
• Prevents osteoporosis among the elderly.

Balanced Diet

• Consume a balanced diet rich in calcium, phosphate, vitamins C and D.
• Vitamin D aids calcium absorption.
• Vitamin C increases bone mass.