Effects of Drug Abuse on the Skeletal System

The effects of drug abuse on the body do not take into consequence a person's gender, lifestyle or personal situation. Drug addiction and substance abuse damages physical and mental health in many ways. While most people are aware of the effects of drug abuse on the liver and brain, not everyone realizes the damage that drugs can cause to the skeletal system.

Effects of Drug Abuse on the Skeletal System

There are a variety of consequences of drug use and abuse on the human body. Here are a few of the complications that can be caused to the skeletal system.

Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis, or bone infection, has been linked to intravenous drug use. Over time, osteomyelitis can cause disability by destroying bones from the inside out. Osteomyelitis is associated with the use of dirty needles and contaminated drugs, such as heroin and methamphetamine.

Osteoporosis

Scientists have long known about the effects of drug abuse on bone density. Osteoporosis is often caused by the malnutrition seen in long-term stimulant users. People addicted to cocaine and methamphetamine commonly go for long periods without eating and consume low-quality foods when they do eat. Opiate addiction has been linked to osteopenia, or reduced bone density, which can precede full-blown osteoporosis.

TMJ and Dental Deterioration

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), dental damage and decay are associated with stimulant abuse. TMJ and tooth damage are often due to habitual teeth-grinding related to stimulation and stress. Smoked crack and methamphetamine are also known to affect the saliva glands, reducing protection from tooth decay.

Arthritis

Malnutrition among users is often responsible for the effects of drug abuse on joint health. The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis, is associated with nutrient deficiencies that reduce the body's ability to repair itself. Levels of vitamin C, a primary nutrient involved in joint repair, are often low in people exposed to chronic stress.

Effects of Drug Abuse on the Spine

Spinal health is often reduced by long-term poor postural habits, such as slouching. The effects of drug abuse on posture are especially visible in users of depressants, such as opiates. In stimulant users, chronic muscle tension can make correct, relaxed posture impossible. Over time, these issues weaken the spine's supporting muscles and increase the risk of spinal injury from routine lifting.

These are not the only skeletal problems caused by drug addiction and substance abuse. Any time malnutrition occurs, systemic health problems can result. Due to the high nutritional needs of the skeletal system, it is likely to suffer in the face of poor diet. Compounded by the other effects of drug abuse on the bones, the skeletal system of substance abusers can end up devastated.