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10 Prevention and care of the locomotor system

The locomotor system can be affected by three types of injuries or disorders:

BONE INJURIES JOINT INJURIES

• Bone fracture. The rupture can be complete It is the separation of bones in a joint. If it occurs in
or partial (fissure). Fractures must not be mobile joints (elbow, shoulder, ankle, knee, etc.), with
moved and may need surgery. They can be Dislocation the loss of contact between the bones, it is called a
caused by blows, and are more likely if you dislocation. It should be immobilized and cooled with ice
have osteoporosis (loss of bone calcium). until the doctor arrives.
• Scoliosis. It is the deviation of the spine. It It is the inflammation of a tendon. It is usually due to
can be treated with various measures, from Tendonitis overactivity. It needs rest.
physical therapy to surgery.
They happen by excessive stretching or twisting of a
ligament. They are classified into three grades (I, II and
Injury to III), ranging from partial distension to total break with
MUSCLE INJURIES ligaments bone removal. A strain or twist is called a sprain. They
cause inflammation, bruising and pain.
• Muscle cramp. It is an involuntary spasm of
a muscle in long-term and excessive efforts. It is the inflammation of the joints with swelling and
It happens due to lack of oxygenation of the Arthritis pain. It can be caused by old age, injury, infection, or
muscle, or loss of fluids and salts. poor diet.
• Muscle distentions, tears, or strains. They It is caused by wear and tear of the cartilage at the
are tears in the muscle fibres. They are Osteoarthritis ends of the bones and joints.
caused by strenuous exercises, not warming
up properly, or accidents. They usually Herniated or It is the displacement of the intervertebral disc, which
cause bruising. slipped disc presses on the nerve causing intense pain and even
neurological damage.

How can musculoskeletal injuries be prevented?

Some ways to prevent bone or muscle injuries are:
• Maintain proper posture when sitting.
• Keep your back straight when lifting heavy items.

• Maintain healthy lifestyle habits and avoid becoming overweight.
It is necessary to know the importance of maintaining correct postural
hygiene. When sitting, you should rest your feet on the floor and avoid
crossing your legs so that blood circulation is not interrupted.

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