Musculoskeletal Disorders Specialist

What are musculoskeletal disorders?

Musculoskeletal disorders affect the musculoskeletal system, which includes your bones, joints, and muscles. About one in two Americans lives with a musculoskeletal disorder, and they’re more common as you get older.

Musculoskeletal disorders vary in severity. Some people experience minor aches and pains that get worse during exercise. Others experience ongoing discomfort that makes it difficult to walk the dog, climb the stairs, or run errands.

What are the symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders?

The symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders depend on what kind of disorder it is and if it’s getting worse. Common signs of musculoskeletal disorders include:

• Stiff joints
• Swelling
• Recurring pain
• Dull aches
• Redness and warmth

If you have a musculoskeletal disorder, you might notice that your symptoms are worse after exercise or other physically demanding activities.

What are some common musculoskeletal disorders?

Dr. Akselrud diagnosis and treats several musculoskeletal disorders, including:

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes your body to attack and destroy the lining of your joints. Over time, this causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in one or several joints. There’s no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but it’s possible to manage the disease with healthy lifestyle changes and prescription medication.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is caused by natural wear-and-tear in your joints. Over time, repetitive motions like running, walking, and jumping cause your cartilage –– the soft, cushiony substance that pads your joints –– to wear away. A lack of cartilage causes your bones to rub against each other, resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by abnormal pressure placed on your median nerve. That pressure results in painful burning, stinging, or shocklike sensations that affect your fingers, hands, and wrists. Experts aren’t entirely sure what causes carpal tunnel syndrome, but it’s thought that repetitive hand and wrist motions play a role.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a musculoskeletal disorder. It causes widespread pain, fatigue, and memory loss. Anyone can develop fibromyalgia, but it’s especially common in women. Though there’s no cure for fibromyalgia, it’s possible to manage it with medication and healthy lifestyle changes.

Fractures

A fracture is a broken bone. A fracture ranges from a hairline crack to a complete break. Fractures usually require a cast or splint to heal. If you suffer a fracture, Dr. Akselrud can develop a treatment plan that encourages a speedy recovery.

How are musculoskeletal disorders treated?

How a musculoskeletal disorder is treated will depend on your age, health history, and symptoms. Whenever possible, Dr. Akselrud recommends conservative, noninvasive measures like losing weight, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly.

If your pain continues or gets worse, you could benefit from prescription medication and/or physical therapy. In rare instances, surgery would be necessary.

To receive treatment for musculoskeletal disorders, request a consultation at the practice of Mark Akselrud, MD. Book online today to schedule an appointment or call the office.