The skeletal system is made up of bones and connective tissue. The bones are supported by cartilage and ligaments. Disorders of the skeletal system include fractures, deformities and diseases. Age, genetics and lifestyle are factors in skeletal disorders. Disorders may cause extreme pain and deformity, or may be slow-acting and subtle.
Osteoporosis
Up to half of all women and a fourth of all men over 50 years of age will break a bone because of osteoporosis, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Osteoporosis is a weakening of the bones which can best be detected with a bone mineral density test.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, according to Mayo Clinic, is also known as degenerative joint disease. The joint cartilage becomes damaged by wear. Osteoarthritis may affect the joints in the hips, lower back, knees, hands and neck.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis, the sideways curvature of the spine, most often starts in adolescence, around puberty, according to the Mayo Clinic. While treatment is most often not required, severe cases may require wearing a brace or surgical correction to straighten the curve.
Spina Bifida
Spina bifida is a birth defect in which a portion of the spinal cord or its coverings do not completely develop. The spine fails to come together completely, leaving a portion of the membranes or spinal cord exposed.
Paget's Disease
Paget's disease of the bone is an abnormal breakdown of bone tissue that is followed by abnormal bone growth. Any part of the skeletal system may be affected, but the most common areas include the arm, leg, spine, collar and pelvis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Fracture
There are different types of bone fractures in the skeletal system. A simple fracture occurs when a bone is broken, but the skin remains intact. If the bone is splintered, it is a comminuted fracture. A compound fracture means the broken bone has penetrated through the skin.
Bone Cancer
According to M D Anderson Cancer Center, there are about 2,500 new cases of primary bone cancer per year in the United States. Metastatic bone cancer is more common than primary bone cancer. Types of bone cancer include osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma and Ewing's sarcoma.
Sprains
Sprains range from mild to serious enough to require surgery. A mild sprain is the excessive stretching of a ligament, such as around the ankle joint. A mild sprain will usually heal in a few days with rest, ice, and elevating the injured limb. A torn ligament, however, may result in an unstable joint. Expect to have surgery to repair the torn ligament.
Kyphosis
Kyphosis is the rounding forward of the upper spine. Children and adults can be affected by this deformity. It may be congenital, or it may be the result of a neuromuscular disorder, trauma or arthritis, according to Spine-Universe.
