MBLEX Review Course: Pathology Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Instructor: Jod Skoles
• Focus of lecture: Pathology, specifically osteoporosis and related conditions
• Importance for massage therapy and exam preparation

Osteoporosis and Osteopenia

Definition

• Osteoporosis: Pathology where bones become brittle due to loss of bone mass, leading to fragility.
• Osteopenia: Early stage of osteoporosis; less severe bone mass loss.

Symptoms and Conditions

• Spinal Conditions:
  • Healthy spine vs. kyphosis (curved spine) and hyperkyphosis (severe curve) leading to hunchback.
  • Osteoporosis can lead to fractures, especially in the hip, spine, and wrist.

Bone Density

• Normal bone density vs. osteoporotic bone shows significant mass loss.
• Key areas of vulnerability include the lumbar spine due to weight-bearing.

Risk Factors

• Gender: Predominantly affects females (9 out of 10 cases).
• Age: Common in elderly, typically over 50 years.
• Race: Higher prevalence in Caucasian and Asian women.
• Body Size: Small-framed individuals are more susceptible.
• Lifestyle: Inactivity, low vitamin D, low estrogen, smoking, and certain drug withdrawals increase risk.

Epidemiology of Osteoporosis

• Study of the incidence, distribution, and control of osteoporosis.
• US Statistics:
  • 8 million women affected, with 2 million men.
  • 1 in 3 women and 1 in 12 men are affected.
• Demographics:
  • Low prevalence in Mexican-American women.
  • Non-Hispanic white women and men of all ages are more affected.
  • Black women have a low prevalence rate.

Massage Therapy Considerations

• Recognize high-risk clients (e.g., frail, elderly, small-framed women).
• Avoid deep pressure techniques that could harm fragile bones.
• Encourage activities that build bone mass (e.g., weightbearing exercise).
• Early detection and advice can prevent progression.

Prevention

• Weightbearing Exercise: Crucial for stopping osteoporosis progression.
• Diet: High calcium and vitamin D intake is essential.
• Lifestyle: Avoid smoking and excessive drinking.
• Vitamin D Sources: Sunlight, fortified milk, broccoli, kale, salmon, and supplements.

Osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Understanding the differences between these two types of arthritis is important for both the exam and practice.

Conclusion

• Overview of osteoporosis, its risks, symptoms, and prevention strategies.
• Importance of recognizing and advising high-risk clients as a massage therapist.

Motivation and Call to Action

• Encouragement for students to pursue a career in massage therapy.
• Acknowledgment of the calling to be a massage therapist and the importance of the profession.

These notes summarize the key points from the pathology lecture focusing on osteoporosis, its symptoms, risk factors, and prevention, with additional insights into massage therapy practice.