Bones/Muscles/Joints
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Joint Health: Common Disorders and Prevention
The joints are what form the connections between your bones and provide your body with support as well as help you move. When your joints become damaged, that movement is interfered and can result in pain. As for what causes damage to the joints, there are a number of reasons – though the most common include disease or injury. Below we take a look at a few of the specific joint-related diseases and injuries in depth, and what you can do to prevent them or find relief. Osteoarthritis OA is one of the most common disorders of the joints that people are diagnosed with. It occurs when the cartilage between…
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Spondyloarthritis
Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is a complex and chronic inflammatory condition that can significantly impact your quality of life. As a physician, it’s essential for me to break down this condition into digestible pieces so that you, as a patient, can understand what you’re dealing with and how to manage it effectively. At its core, SpA refers to a cluster of chronic inflammatory diseases that share common features, both clinically and genetically. These conditions typically manifest with pain and stiffness primarily affecting the back but can also involve other areas of the body, such as the knees, hips, eyes, skin, and gastrointestinal tract. Central to understanding SpA is recognizing its immune-mediated nature.…
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Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a medical condition that progressively weakens bones, making them fragile and more susceptible to fractures. It is a global health issue, particularly in countries like Canada where the population is aging. Understanding osteoporosis requires an exploration of various facets including its causes, symptoms, diagnostic procedures, treatment options, and preventive measures. The Underlying Causes and Risk Factors At the heart of osteoporosis lies a disruption in the bone remodeling process. Bones are dynamic structures, constantly being broken down and rebuilt. Osteoporosis occurs when the creation of new bone doesn’t keep up with the removal of old bone. This imbalance leads to bones becoming less dense and more porous, and…
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Enteropathic Arthritis
Enteropathic arthritis, a form of chronic, inflammatory arthritis associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), affects a significant portion of individuals dealing with conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of enteropathic arthritis, delving into its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment strategies, with a focus on Canadian healthcare perspectives. Understanding Enteropathic Arthritis A. Definition and Association with IBD Enteropathic arthritis falls under the umbrella of spondyloarthritis, a group of inflammatory rheumatic diseases. It primarily affects the joints, but its connection to IBD indicates a complex interplay between the gut and the immune system. B. Prevalence Statistics from Canadian healthcare databases suggest that a…
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Exploring Common Arthritic Conditions
In Canada, arthritis isn’t simply a condition impacting the ageing population; it presents a pervasive health issue, transcending age and demographic confines. 1 in 5 Canadians are navigating life with arthritis, a statistic that emphasizes the sweeping prevalence of the condition. While arthritis envelops over 100 different types, this article spotlights the most common ones, their symptoms, and possible treatment approaches. Understanding Arthritis Arthritis encompasses a range of disorders affecting our joints and musculoskeletal system, causing pain and disability across various age groups. The sheer diversity of over 100 types of arthritis results in a myriad of symptoms, affecting joints, tissues, and in certain instances, internal organs. Spotlight on Common…
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Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) stands as one of the most severe types of muscular dystrophy. This progressive muscle disorder is characterized by muscle weakness and wasting, primarily affecting boys and leading to severe physical disability. This article aims to provide a thorough understanding of Duchenne’s, the populations it impacts, its causes, and available treatment options. What is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy? Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disorder that leads to muscle degeneration and weakness. It is one of nine types of muscular dystrophy. DMD primarily affects the skeletal muscles, which control movement, though it can also impact the heart and other organs. As DMD progresses, affected individuals usually face…
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Carpal Tunnel: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a prevalent neuropathic disorder that affects many individuals worldwide. It is characterized by the compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway located at the base of the hand. This article delves deep into the intricacies of CTS, the demographics it commonly affects, its causes, symptoms, and the treatments available. Demographics: Who’s at Risk? CTS is indiscriminate, but certain segments of the population have a heightened vulnerability: Gender and Biology: Women, with a predisposition due to their typically smaller carpal tunnels, are thrice as likely to suffer from CTS compared to men. The Age Factor: The syndrome often…
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Keeping Your Muscles Supple
Muscle stiffness can be a common issue, especially as we age or engage in intense physical activity. Stiff muscles are not only uncomfortable, but they can also limit our range of motion and impact our daily lives. In this article, I’ll share some tips to help you prevent muscle stiffness and keep your muscles supple and healthy. Regular Exercise Engage in regular physical activity to keep your muscles active and flexible. Exercise helps to increase blood flow, bringing essential nutrients to your muscles, and removing waste products. Activities such as stretching, yoga, or Pilates can help increase your range of motion and prevent muscles from stiffening up. However, ensure you’re…
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a painful disorder that impacts the hands and wrists and can have significant implications for a person’s daily activities and quality of life. In this article, we will discuss what carpal tunnel syndrome is, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options. What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the palm of the hand, becomes compressed or pinched at the wrist. This compression happens within the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway located on the palm side of the wrist. The carpal tunnel is surrounded…
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Arthritis in Younger People
Arthritis is commonly associated with the elderly, but the reality is that this inflammatory condition can strike at any age. In Canada, a surprising number of children, adolescents, and younger adults are grappling with various forms of arthritis. Understanding the complexities of these conditions, their causes, symptoms, and treatments, can greatly aid in their management. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis is a group of inflammatory joint disorders that affect children under the age of 16. Its subtypes provide insights into its diverse presentations. Systemic JIA Systemic JIA affects the entire body and often starts with high fevers and a rash. These symptoms may be mistaken for a viral…
