Orthopedic and Neurological Disorders

Orthopedic and neurological disorders are disorders of two of the major systems in the body. The musculoskeletal, or muscle-and-bone infrastructure of the body, keeps the body upright and allows it to move. The neurological or nervous system, made up of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, coordinates the body’s voluntary and involuntary actions and transmits signals between different parts of the body.

Trouble in either of these systems, whether congenital or the result of injury or illness, can have wide-ranging effects. Healthy bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles are necessary for a child’s growth and development. The ability to move and exercise helps the brain and other systems such as digestion function and develop better. A healthy brain, spine, and nerves keep all the systems of the body communicating, moving, and working together. A healthy nervous system allows us to think, feel, and communicate with other people.

Congenital orthopedic disorders may include clubfoot, hip dysplasia, and scoliosis, while musculoskeletal injuries usually result from strenuous activity and include broken bones, sprains and strains, and bruises.

Congenital neurological disorders may include cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and spina bifida. Neurological injuries may include traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and as well as environmental insults from heavy metals such as lead.