The body is composed of hundreds of different muscles and bones working together to create movement. Each and every one of those bones and muscles has a delegated task to make the body function. However, there are times when problems cause muscles and bones to lose their ability to function. Musculoskeletal disorders have a variety of effects that can range from pain, muscle fatigue, to paralysis.

Musculoskeletal disorders, if left untreated, can be very damaging. It can dramatically affect your entire life by taking away your freedom to move. Here are some of the most common bone, joint, and muscle disorders that affect the American adult population:

1. Arthritis

This is a joint disease that is characterized by inflammation, pain, and immobility of the affected area. It can be caused by an auto-immune system malfunction, joint infection, natural degeneration, or high uric acid in the bloodstream. Aside from swollen and achy joints, most arthritis sufferers complain of tenderness, redness, and warmth on the area surrounding the affected joint.

2. Back pain (Dorsalgia)

This a musculoskeletal condition characterized by pain in the back, involving the muscles, nerves, bones, joints, and other structures connected to the spine. The pain is usually of different intensity, and can stay in one place or it may keep migrating to other areas of the spine (neck, upper, and lower back).

3. Foot disorders

The most common foot disorder is plantar fasciitis, wherein the thick padding that cushions the bottom of the foot (plantar fascia) becomes inflamed. Because the foot is the body’s weight bearer and shock absorber, it is more prone to developing irritation and swelling. This disorder is most common in runners and dancers who spend a lot of time standing.

Now that you know the three most common musculoskeletal disorders, it is time to learn about the different ways to treat and manage these conditions. Here are some of the most commonly used treatments and means of managing musculoskeletal disorders:

1. Prescription medicines

Most doctors suggest managing musculoskeletal disorders with the help of Carisoprodol or other prescription-based muscle relaxers and pain relievers. High-grade pain relievers and muscle relaxers are used for moderate to severe pain. Most mild to moderate musculoskeletal pain and discomforts can be remedied by over-the-counter pain relievers.

2. Physical and occupational therapy

This therapy aims to restore mobility and flexibility of the affected joint. Physical and occupational therapists may require the use of devices such as the TENS machine and hot and cold packs to reduce pain and swelling of the affected area of the body.

3. Exercise

Engaging in low-impact exercises at moderated durations can help build up muscle tone, and it can help loosen and relax rigid muscles. Avoiding high-impact exercises prevent recurrence of the disorder. Also, exercising promotes losing weight which will help lessen the weight being carried by the spine and the feet.

4. Surgery

When musculoskeletal disorders reach critical level, doctors are left with no choice but to perform surgical operations - to either remove the damaged muscle or replace the affected joint.

Prevention is always better than cure. So it is best to keep the body healthy to avoid developing musculoskeletal conditions. Eat a well-balanced diet, keep yourself active and fit, and you’re off to a muscle pain-free life.