Musculoskeletal Conditions in Women: 6 Common Ailments, 3 Associated Symptoms, And More

3 Symptoms of Musculoskeletal Conditions in Women

As per Dr. Aramya AR, musculoskeletal pain is a widespread issue, affecting nearly everyone at some point. The nature of this pain varies and accurate description aids in diagnosis and treatment. It manifests in the following 3 ways:

1) Bone Pain

Bone pain is typically a dull, deep ache. Fractures can cause intense pain with swelling, contusion and mobility issues. Infections or tumors can also cause significant bone pain. The pain becomes sharper, more intense and often accompanied by swelling, bruising and an inability to bear weight or move the affected limb. Infections of the bone or bone tumors can also cause significant deep-seated bone pain.

2) Joint Pain

In those with arthritis and related conditions, joints may exhibit stiffness, particularly upon awakening or following periods of inactivity. Affected individuals frequently characterize the sensation as an ache or soreness; sensations of burning, throbbing, or a grinding within the joint may also be present. This grinding type of pain, clinically termed crepitus, is generally attributed to irregularities in the cartilage. Typically joint pain is alleviated by rest and exacerbated by movement; however, this pattern is contingent upon the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Inflammation of the joint may also result in edema, erythema, and
increased local temperature.

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3) Muscle Pain

Muscular discomfort may be experienced as a range of sensations. Certain individuals report a consistent, deep ache of extended duration. Conversely, others describe acute, intermittent pains of an unpredictable nature. The anatomical location of muscular pain is also variable.

Systemic muscular pain throughout the body, a condition designated as myalgia, is frequently correlated with viral infections or fibromyalgia. Localized muscular pain may occur in specific regions, such as the cervical, scapular, dorsal or lower extremities. Muscular cramping, spasms, and rigidity are also commonly observed as concomitant symptoms. Etiological factors contributing to muscular discomfort may encompass excessive utilization, physical trauma, psychological strain, emotional duress and inadequate hydration.

6 Common Musculoskeletal Conditions in Women

Understanding the nuances of musculoskeletal pain, its potential causes, and diverse manifestations is crucial for effective diagnosis, management and treatment, states Dr. Aramya AR. She lists 6 musculoskeletal conditions commonly seen in women:

1) Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak due to loss of density and mass, or changes in bone structure, common in postmenopausal women. It can be caused due to calcium deficiency, extreme dieting, being too thin, or certain other health issues. People with conditions like celiac disease, bowel inflammation, kidney or liver problems, cancer, multiple myeloma, or rheumatoid arthritis have a greater chance of developing osteoporosis. There can be frequent fractures, low back pain, height shortening, and compromised posture in them.

2) Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition characterized by cartilage deterioration. This condition commonly affects women who are over the age of 45. Manifestations may include joint pain, particularly in the knees, hips and hands, as well as stiffness following periods of rest. Individuals affected by osteoarthritis typically experience joint pain and a transient period of stiffness subsequent to rest or inactivity.

3) Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation, common in women aged 30-60. Key symptoms include symmetrical joint pain (especially in fingers and wrists), morning stiffness exceeding 30 minutes, fatigue and low-grade fever, painful, warm, swollen joints; and tiredness and loss of appetite. It can also affect other areas, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, nerve tissue and blood.

4) Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a long-term illness causing widespread pain and soreness, tiredness, and sleep issues. This ongoing pain condition often affects women in their middle years, bringing muscle pain, sleep disturbances and problems with thinking. It involves intense pain all over the body, high sensitivity to touch and exhaustion.

5) Pelvic Girdle Pain

Pelvic girdle pain is discomfort in the front or back of the pelvis and it spreads to hips or upper legs. It can affect the joints at the back of pelvis, sacroiliac joints. The pain mainly comes from the sacroiliac joint, the symphysis pubis and the muscles and ligaments around them. This problem is common when during pregnancy or after giving birth and women have it more often than men. It can make it hard to do everyday activities and lowers the quality of life. It can also lead to feeling depressed, worried, missing work, and being unable to do things.

6) Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder also known as adhesive capsulitis, causes pain and limited functionality in the shoulder. It usually starts gradually and worsens over time. While it's a frequent shoulder problem, it mostly affects women aged 40 to 60. The primary signs are pain and stiffness, which can make moving the shoulder hard or impossible. Menopause and hormone problems might play a role in women getting it, but diabetes is a major risk factor.

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