Clinical Foundations of Musculoskeletal Medicine

Book excerpt: Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders have a high prevalence and are one of the main reasons for patients to consult with a provider. For a range of issues from injury to back pain to rheumatic disease, musculoskeletal pathology is the second most common reason for a patient to see a primary care provider. However, despite their prevalence and significant socioeconomic impact, musculoskeletal disorders are relatively undertaught in medical schools in the United States. While all medical, nursing and physician assistant students receive exposure to some MSK content, in many medical schools this material does not receive curricular exposure commensurate with its prevalence. This practical textbook fills in that gap. All aspects of musculoskeletal disease and its management are presented concisely for quick reference and review, with each chapter opening with clear goals and objectives. The text begins with a discussion of the anatomy and physiology of bone, cartilage and muscle, including imaging techniques and interpretation. Musculoskeletal infections, tumors and vascular conditions are then covered, along with common rheumatic conditions such as rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, metabolic bone disease, and age-specific and traumatic conditions. Finally, the upper and lower extremity and spine are thoroughly discussed in terms of anatomy/pathoanatomy, common clinical conditions, physical exam, and common radiographic and clinical correlations. The main audience for Clinical Foundations of Musculoskeletal Medicine is medical students seeking to improve their understanding of common musculoskeletal conditions. Given the relevance of musculoskeletal conditions to a range of providers, this book can also be used for the musculoskeletal education of allied professionals such as physician assistants (PA) and nurse practitioner students. It could likewise serve as a resource for practicing medical professionals to develop and enhance their knowledge in this content area.