Musculoskeletal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Musculoskeletal - Essay Example Another vital electrolyte in musculoskeletal function is Potassium. Its role is concerned with the neutralization of metabolic acids that deplete bone. Potassium salts taken into the body via fruits and vegetables yield Potassium bicarbonate via metabolism. Were these not to be taken in adequate amounts, they would lead to mineral compounds that alkalize bone being recruited from the bone, thus resulting in bone resorption, a possible cause for the patients need for a hip replacement. The resorption of bone to provide alkalization fluids leads to bone weakening (Denegar et al, 2004). a) Osteocytes: These are star shaped cells of the bone that are surrounded by the bone matrix. They are mature forms of other bone cells called osteoblasts. They possess long branches from their main body that extend and connect to other adjacent osteocytes. They perform a crucial role in the maintenance of body fluids of Calcium ion levels. They carry this function out by regulating the resorption and formation of bone, thus controlling the amount of calcium in the body, since Calcium ions are essential components in the formation of bone. The bone is the human body’s major Calcium reservoir. Thus, these cells end up controlling Calcium levels. The patient could have a problem with osteoclast regeneration, thus leading to continued bone depletion (Dvořà ¡k, 2009). b) Osteoblast Cells: These are primarily bone cells that form bone. They only possess one nucleus and are formed from other cells known as osteoprogenitor cells. They function via the production of osteoid, better known as the bone matrix. After secretion, the matrix is then, together with Phosphate and Calcium, mineralized to form bone (Dvořà ¡k, 2009). When these cells mature and stop producing bone, they become flat and line the bone surface. Here, they regulate the entry and departure of Calcium and