The skeletal system of the body consists of all the bones as well as the tissues that connect the bones, including tendons, cartilage and ligaments. The skeletal system functions to provide structure and support, to protect the internal organs and to allow for movement. There are many diseases and disorders that can affect the 206 bones of an adult human and all the tissues that go along with them.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
The part of your body where two bones come together is known as a joint. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic (meaning long-term) disease that causes inflammation of the lining of the joints, which is known as the synovium. The exact cause of RA is unknown, but the body's immune system and how it responds is known to play a role in this disease. RA affects approximately 1.3 million Americans, according to the Arthritis Foundation, causing pain and stiffness of the joints that can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting nearly 27 million people in the United States alone, as reported by the Arthritis Foundation. Osteoarthritis is caused by the normal wear and tear on the joints over time. The joints are cushioned by cartilage, a tough and fibrous elastic tissue. Over time the cartilage begins to break-down, allowing the bones to rub together. This causes pain and stiffness in the joints that can lead to a loss of mobility in the joint.
Bone Cancer
Bone cancer is the uncontrolled and abnormal growth of cells within the bone that is malignant, meaning it destroys bone tissue and can spread to other parts of the body. Bones are living tissue made up of several different types of cells. Osteoid tissue is the hard tissue of the bone, and cancer that begins in these cells is known as osteosarcoma. Bones also contain cartilagineous tissue, which is tough but flexible. Cancer that begins in this type of tissue is known as chondrosarcoma. Bone cancer that originates in the bones, known as primary bone cancer, is rare, accounting for less than 1 percent of all cancers, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease of the bones characterized by the deterioration of bone tissue that results in bones that are porous and fragile. Osteoporosis affects 10 million Americans, and over 34 million others are at risk for the disease, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. This disease results in an increased risk for fractures. More women than men are affected by osteoporosis, with over 80 percent of all cases occurring in women, but men are at risk as well.
