10.10 Other Musculoskeletal Disorders
Additional musculoskeletal disorders are briefly discussed in this section.
Bone Cancer
There are three types of primary bone cancers: osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and chondrosarcoma. These are considered primary cancers because they originate in the bones. Osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcomas are cancers found in children, teenagers, and young adults. Ewing sarcoma is considered to be the more aggressive of the two cancers because it tends to metastasize quickly. Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer, and it begins in the tissues of growing bones. Chondrosarcoma develops in cells that produce cartilage and affects adults.
Bone cancer can also be caused by cancer that has metastasized from other areas of the body. For example, breast, lung, and prostate cancer commonly cause bone metastasis.
Symptoms of bone cancer may include fatigue, unintended weight loss, bone pain, swelling, tenderness, and weakened bone leading to fractures. Diagnostic testing may include a bone scan, X-ray, CT scan, MRI, PET scan, and bone biopsy. Treatment is based on the type of cancer, the stage of the cancer, and the client’s overall health and preferences. For example, some bone cancers are treated with surgery; some are treated with surgery and chemotherapy; and others are treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.[1]
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affects the ability to move and maintain balance and posture. “Cerebral” means having to do with the brain, and “palsy” means weakness or problems with using the muscles. CP is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain that affects the ability to control muscles.[2]
The symptoms of CP vary from person to person. A person with severe CP might require the use of special equipment to walk or might not be able to walk at all and need lifelong care. A person with mild CP, on the other hand, might walk a little awkwardly, but otherwise not require specialized care. Doctors classify CP according to the main type of movement disorder involved. Depending on which areas of the brain are affected, one or more of the following movement disorders can occur[3]:
- Spasticity: Stiff muscles
- Dyskinesia: Uncontrollable movements
- Ataxia: Poor balance and coordination
There is no cure for CP, but treatment can improve the quality of life for people who have the condition. After CP is diagnosed, a team of health professionals works with the child and family to develop a plan to help the child reach their optimal potential. Common treatments include medications; surgery; braces; and physical, occupational, and speech therapy.[4]
See Figure 10.39[5] for an image of David Smith who has cerebral palsy and is a Paralympian. Paralympians are athletes with a range of impairments who compete in the Paralympics, a competition similar to the Olympics. Paralympic athletes inspire people around the world with their performances