7 Bone Diseases That You Should Look Out For

Like every other body part, bones are living tissues and go through several rejuvenation cycles throughout life. Older bone tissues are replaced with newly formed bone tissues in a process called remodeling. Just like the remodeling of your house, our skeletal structure is also strengthened so that we can depend on it throughout our lives.

Physicians analyze the condition of our bones via bone mass. For instance, a bone mineral density test can give doctors a clear view of the calcium content of bones. Here are the ten most common bone ailments that you need to keep an eye on:

Osteoporosis:

In this disease, the bone density reduces to a greater extent. As a result, the bone tissues get brittle and break off easily. The disease currently affects 44 million individuals worldwide. Women are more prone to osteoporosis than men. Besides, the disease remains symptomless and only reveals itself after a bone fracture happens.

Bone Infection:

It is a rare but severe condition and is also known as osteomyelitis. The disease starts progressing after surgery. Pain, swelling, and redness are common symptoms of bone infection. For treatment, doctors usually prescribe antibiotics. However, in severe conditions, the infected bones are surgically removed.

Bone Tumors:

Bone tumor happens when uncontrollable growth of cells occurs inside bone tissue. The tumors are either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). The treatment plan is selected as per the diagnosis of the tumor.

Scoliosis

In this condition, the bones of the spine curve abnormally, whether to the right or left. The spinal deformity usually strikes at puberty and might get worst with time. According to research, over 2.5 million people are diagnosed with Scoliosis in the U.S. The cause of the disease is unknown, but some scientists link it with hereditary.

Rheumatoid Arthritis:

It is an immunodeficiency, chronic disease. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body tissue, such as joints in the feet or hands. The disease primarily affects the lining of the joints causing painful swelling. If left untreated, the patient may experience bone erosion and permanent joint deformity.

Gout:

In this disorder, the excess uric acid in the body transforms into the crystal and starts assimilation in the joints. As a result, the joints swell up and get painful.  Ankle, foot, and knee joints are most prone to gout. Diet plays a vital role when it comes to this ailment. Another contributing factor for gout is malfunctioning kidneys.

Paget’s disease:

In this bone disorder, the remodeling procedure occurs way too quickly, causing soft enlarged bones in different body areas such as the spine, pelvis, skull, long thighs, and lower legs. According to scientists, Paget’s disease is hereditary.

When to see a doctor?

Communicate with your doctor if you have:

  • Unbearable pain in the joints and bones that does not seem to go away,
  • Deformation in bones
  • High fever with chills
  • Low mobility

What surgical instruments are used in orthopedic surgeries?

Here are some of the most common surgical instruments that are used to treat bone ailments:

  • Scalpel blades
  • Mayo dissecting scissor
  • Surgical retractors
  • Osteotomes and mallets
  • Bone reduction clamp
  • Meniscal probes
  • Periosteal elevators

Although surgery is not always the cure for the bone diseases mentioned above, it is conducted only when the patient’s condition worsens, and other treatment plans are not showing positive results.

Conclusion:

Several diseases can affect our bones. This article has sourced 7 of the most unique bone ailments that one must look out for. Suppose you are suffering from excruciating joint pain along with fever and inflammation. In that case, it is highly advised to visit your doctor and get a treatment plan before the condition gets worse.

Emily Sofia

Emily Sofia

I'm a business communications coach who teaches writing, speaking, and leadership skills to adults in the midst of a career change. I cover topics such as effective workplace communications, Medical Sciences, and public speaking skills. This article is contributed by GerMedUSA and Vet and Tech.

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