Signs, Symptoms and etiology of common diseases, conditions, and injuries: MUSCULAR SYSTEM

Muscular dystrophy

Symptoms: Chronic and progressive muscle weakness leading to eventual paralysis of muscle groups

Etiology: Inherited or spontaneous genetic mutation in one of the genes involved with protecting muscle fibers from damage

Diagnosis: patient history, physical exam, muscle enzyme tests, electromyography, muscle biopsy, and genetic testing. TX involves PT, ambulatory devices, and meds

Myopathy

Symptoms: Muscle weakness, cramps, stiffness, spasms, and tenany

Etiology: Can result from many different processes

Diagnosis:based on symptoms, focus on underlying cause. TX depending on underlying cause, PT, med therapy, massage and maybe surgery

Myalgia

Symptoms: Muscle pain (broad term)

Etiology: Several causes: traumatic injury, Viral infection, overuse or overstretching of muscle group, medications and vaccines

Diagnosis: depends on underlying cause, targeted symptomatic tx includes massage, heat or cold therapy, muscle pain meds or relaxants.

Repetitive stress disorder (RSD)

Symptoms: pain, tingling, numbness, swelling. Redness loss of flexibility and muscle weakness

Etiology: Repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, vibrations, mechanical compression and sustained uncomfortable postilions can cause it

Diagnosis:physical, pt hx, imaging. TX early tx anti-inflammatory meds, rest, splinting and massage. Severe disease: surgery

Shin splint

Symptoms: Pain and swelling in lower leg

Etiology: repeated stress of the tibia and connective tissues

Diagnosis: Physical and patient history TX involves RICE and surgery if severe enough