Our skeletons are not something we think about … unless something goes wrong! This often this only happens as we get a little older. Old injuries surface again, it’s no longer so easy to get out of a low chair, and “gout” and “arthritis” become part of our vocabulary!
Across the world, musculoskeletal conditions, which include back pain, arthritis, traumatic injuries, osteoporosis and some childhood conditions, are the most common cause of severe long-term pain and physical disability. The quality of life, productivity and general wellbeing of millions of people are affected. Moreover, the incidents of these conditions are increasing as the life-expectancy of the general world population increases.
Some musculoskeletal conditions are impossible to prevent, but pain can be alleviated by a combination of self-care, lifestyle changes and professional care.
During World Bone and Joint Week in October every year, events and projects take place to raise awareness of prevention, disease management and treatments as well as advances in a number of areas. In addition to the general awareness activities, five specific conditions each of the following get special attention on a specific day:
-
- Arthritis
-
- Spine
-
- Trauma
-
- Paediatric Bone and Joint
-
- Osteoporosis.
Persons suffering from musculoskeletal conditions should seek professional help for alleviating their pain and improving their wellbeing as far as possible. As Jack Benny, a leading American entertainer of the 20th century, said on the occasion of receiving a reward: I don’t deserve this award, but then I have arthritis and I don’t deserve that either!
Sources
The Healthwise Handbook. 1998. Healthwise Inc, Boise, Idaho
(Revised by M van Deventer)