Musculoskeletal System

Body Systems Musculoskeletal System
MSK overview

Musculoskeletal System

Musculoskeletal conditions, evidence, coding, and nursing diagnoses.

Conditions

Major msk conditions

MSK 6 sections

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis: low bone mass + microarchitectural deterioration increasing fracture risk. T-score ≤-2.5. Fragility fractures (hip, spine, wrist) are the clinical consequence. Prevention is key.

osteoporosis osteopenia low bone density
MSK 6 sections

Hip Fx

Hip fracture in elderly (usually osteoporotic) has 20-30% 1-year mortality. Surgery within 48 hours improves outcomes. Types: femoral neck (intracapsular) and intertrochanteric. Comprehensive geriatric care essential.

hip fracture femoral neck fracture intertrochanteric fracture
MSK 6 sections

RA

RA is systemic autoimmune symmetric polyarthritis. Predominantly small joints (MCPs, PIPs, wrists). Morning stiffness >1 hour. Anti-CCP antibodies are highly specific. Early DMARD therapy prevents joint destruction.

RA rheumatoid arthritis inflammatory arthritis
MSK 6 sections

Gout

Gout is uric acid crystal deposition in joints. Classic: podagra (first MTP). Attacks are exquisitely painful. Chronic gout causes tophi and renal stones. Urate-lowering therapy prevents recurrence.

gout gouty arthritis hyperuricemia
MSK 6 sections

Septic Arthritis

Septic arthritis is joint space infection — orthopedic emergency. Most common: S. aureus. Hot, swollen, painful joint. Joint aspiration is mandatory. Rapid antibiotic therapy and drainage prevent joint destruction.

septic arthritis infectious arthritis joint infection
MSK 6 sections

Compartment Syndrome

Compartment syndrome: elevated intracompartmental pressure compromising perfusion. Cause: trauma, tight casts, reperfusion injury. The 6 P's: Pain (out of proportion), Pressure, Paresthesia, Pallor, Pulselessness, Paralysis. Emergent fasciotomy.

compartment syndrome acute compartment syndrome ACS
MSK 6 sections

Falls Prevention

Falls are the most common adverse event in hospitals. Risk factors: age >65, polypharmacy, orthostatic hypotension, cognitive impairment, weakness. ABCS: Activity, Bladder, Communication, Supervision.

fall prevention fall risk falling
Nursing diagnoses & care plans

Related nursing diagnoses

NANDA Care plans

Nursing Diagnoses & Care Plans

Open the NANDA tool to review nursing diagnoses and care-plan concepts related to msk conditions.