While less than a full page is devoted to actual diseases and conditions and specific mention of diagnostic methods and treatments of these conditions, over three pages are given over to a general discussion of assessment and treatment (Judge 2007). Though there are conditions that might not present in ways conducive to these general methods, Judge notes that the bulk of musculoskeletal conditions often have similar complaints, especially with range of motion and pain (Judge 2007). The consistent symptom presentation and other related factors makes this approach most efficient. The similarities can also make the correct diagnoses of a specific musculoskeletal condition in contrast to another somewhat difficult. Judge lays out a careful yet efficient assessment procedure that quickly determines the underlying cause of the most commonly presented musculoskeletal symptoms, giving the working nurse an excellent and handy practical guide in providing the most help to patients. One of the most common symptoms presented with a musculoskeletal condition, and on of the most essential to diagnosis and treatment, is a limitation in the range of movement in one ore more joints, which often also affects other muscle groups and even bones...

There are a number of factors that could result in a limited range of motion, and determining which one(s) led to the specific patients symptoms helps to determine the actual condition present in the patient and thus the proper course of treatment. For many injuries and other non-chronic conditions, the acronym RICE -- rest, ice, compression, elevation -- provides the proper way to treat musculoskeletal conditions (Judge 2007).
Though there is certainly more complete information on the various conditions that can arise in the musculoskeletal system and the ways to both treat and prevent these conditions, Nicola L. Judge's article in Nursing standard (2007) provides an excellent overview and guide to the topic. Her article does not aim to be academic in nature so much as it is practical, aimed more at the working nurse then the student. Ironically, this makes it a much better tool for the nursing student than many other sources, as it provides exactly the information needed to properly and effectively diagnose and treat a patient -- the ultimate goal of nursing and the medical professions.

References

Judge, N.L. (2007). "Assessing and managing patients with musculoskeletal…