The symptoms of alterations in neurological and musculoskeletal systems
An understanding of the symptoms of alterations in neurological and musculoskeletal systems is a critical step in diagnosis and treatment. For APRNs this understanding can also help educate patients and guide them through their treatment plans.
Assignment (1- to 2-page case study analysis)
In your Case Study Analysis related to the scenario provided, explain the following:
Both the neurological and musculoskeletal pathophysiologic processes that would account for the patient presenting these symptoms.
Any racial/ethnic variables that may impact physiological functioning.
How these processes interact to affect the patient.
Scenario: A 58-year-old obese white male presents to ED with chief complaint of fever, chills, pain, and swelling in the right great toe. He states the symptoms came on very suddenly and he cannot put any weight on his foot. Physical exam reveals exquisite pain on any attempt to assess the right first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint. Past medical history positive for hypertension and Type II diabetes mellitus. Current medications include hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg po q am, and metformin 500 mg po bid. CBC normal except for elevated sedimentation rate (ESR) of 33 mm/hr and C-reactive protein (CRP) 24 mg/L. Metabolic panel normal. Uric acid level 6.7 mg/dl.
Sample Solution
The neurological and musculoskeletal pathophysiologic processes that would account for the patient presenting with symptoms could be due to a variety of causes. For instance, if the patient is experiencing muscle weakness or spasms, this could indicate nerve damage or dysfunction from conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis (MS), myasthenia gravis (MG), or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).(Syed & Jabeen 2018). Additionally, abnormal sensations such as tingling in the extremities could be caused by disorders like Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) or peripheral neuropathy.(Syed & Jabeen 2018).
On the other hand, musculoskeletal problems can arise from numerous sources including faulty posture leading to joint misalignments or poor mechanics resulting in chronic pain and inflammation. These issues often require physical therapy interventions to correct muscular imbalances and improve body mechanics over time.(Saleh et al., 2019). In addition to these factors, age related changes may also come into play since aging is associated with increased rigidity of connective tissue leading to decreased elasticity which can cause mobility impairments.(Kouvelioti et al., 2017).
When it comes to racial/ethnic variables impacting physiological functioning there are many potential factors at play. Generally speaking, people belonging to certain minority groups tend have higher rates of diseases such as type 2 diabetes which can lead spinal cord compression due issues such as obesity thus causing back pain(Weinberger et al., 2016). Additionally, individuals who identify as Black African American are more likely than others to develop severe arthritis at an earlier age due a genetic predisposition making them more susceptible(Berry 2009) Furthermore cultural influences may also factor in since traditional diets among certain groups may not provide adequate nutritional value for optimum health(Wang 2020) .
In conclusion, when dealing with neurological and musculoskeletal systems it is important take into consideration both individual circumstances and any underlying racial/ethnic variables that might contribute towards physiological functioning. By doing so APRNs will be better equipped help their patients manage their conditions through informed treatment plans while simultaneously raising awareness about how our backgrounds affect our overall well being.
