Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are conditions that can affect your muscles, bones, and joints. MSDs include:

• tendinitis
• carpal tunnel syndrome
• osteoarthritis
• rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
• fibromyalgia
• bone fractures

MSDs are common. And your risk of developing them increases with age.

The severity of MSDs can vary. In some cases, they cause pain and discomfort that interferes with everyday activities. Early diagnosis and treatment may help ease symptoms and improve long-term outlook.

SYMPTOMS:

• recurrent pain
• stiff joints
• swelling
• dull aches

They can affect any major area of your musculoskeletal system, including the following:

• neck
• shoulders
• wrists
• back
• hips
• legs
• knees
• feet

In some cases, the symptoms of MSDs interfere with everyday activities like walking or typing. You may develop a limited range of motion or have trouble completing routine tasks

CAUSES:

Your risk of developing MSDs is affected by:

• age
• occupation
• activity level
• lifestyle
• family history

Certain activities can cause wear and tear on your musculoskeletal system, leading to MSDs. These include:

• sitting in the same position at a computer every day
• engaging in repetitive motions
• lifting heavy weights
• maintaining poor posture at work

TREATMENTS:

• MEDICATION
• Injections with anesthetic or anti-inflammatory medications in or around the painful sites
• Exercise that includes muscle strengthening and stretching
• Physical or occupational therapy
• Acupuncture or acupressure
• Relaxation/biofeedback techniques
• Osteopathic manipulation (a whole system of evaluation and treatment designed to achieve and maintain health by restoring normal function to the body)
• Chiropractic care
• Therapeutic massage