The Musculoskeletal System Caused By Aging Discussion

Nurse practitioners should be familiar with changes in the musculoskeletal system caused by aging. Make a checklist for the assessment of the following musculoskeletal problems, including history, components of physical examination, and observations.

– Gait problems

– Joint pain and limited range of motions

Please include EBP, research studies, and/or reliable electronic sources to support your arguments. The Musculoskeletal System Caused By Aging Discussion

Gait Problems

Nurse practitioners (NPs) should employ a comprehensive approach when assessing gait problems in the aging population.

ORDER  HERE A PLAGIARISM-FREE PAPER HERE

History

• Begin by obtaining a detailed history, including the onset and progression of gait abnormalities, any history of falls, and changes in mobility.
• Inquire about the use of assistive devices and medications that might affect balance or coordination. This information can guide further investigations and interventions.

Physical Examination

• Conduct a thorough physical examination, observing the patient’s gait for asymmetry, irregularities, or instability.
• Perform tandem gait and heel-to-toe walking assessments to identify specific abnormalities.
• Utilize standardized tools like the Tinetti Gait and Balance Evaluation to quantify and categorize gait abnormalities (Chawan, 2020)The Musculoskeletal System Caused By Aging Discussion.

Observations

• Note any visible signs of muscle weakness, joint deformities, or compensatory movements during walking.
• Observations of gait aids and their proper use provide additional insights into functional limitations.

 Joint Pain and Limited Range of Motions

Assessing joint pain and limited range of motions in the elderly requires a meticulous approach.

History

• Obtain a detailed history of joint pain, considering the onset, duration, aggravating and alleviating factors, and any associated symptoms.
• Inquire about the impact on daily activities and functional abilities.
• Patient-reported outcomes, as highlighted in studies like those by Wang et al. (2021), provide valuable insights into the subjective experience of joint pain.

Physical Examination

• Perform a systematic examination of joints, assessing for signs of inflammation, tenderness, and limitations in range of motion.
• Utilize standardized joint assessment tools recommended by organizations like the American College of Rheumatology (Angeles‐Han et al., 2019) to enhance accuracy.

Observations

• Document any visible signs of joint swelling, redness, or deformities.
• Observe the patient’s ability to perform daily tasks, noting any limitations or adaptations made due to joint pain or stiffness. The Musculoskeletal System Caused By Aging Discussion

References

Angeles‐Han, S. T., Ringold, S., Beukelman, T., Lovell, D., Cuello, C. A., Becker, M. L., … & Reston, J. (2019). 2019 American College of Rheumatology/Arthritis Foundation guideline for the screening, monitoring, and treatment of juvenile idiopathic arthritis–associated uveitis. Arthritis care & research, 71(6), 703-716.

Chawan, V. R. (2020). Person Identification and Tinetti Score Assessment Using Balance Parameters to Determine Fall Risk. The University of Texas at Arlington.

Wang, Y., Yin, M., Zhu, S., Chen, X., Zhou, H., & Qian, W. (2021). Patient-reported outcome measures used in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty: a COSMIN systematic review. Bone & Joint Research, 10(3), 203-217 The Musculoskeletal System Caused By Aging Discussion