Musculo-skeletal conditions and sexuality (part II)

Abstract

In a recent article (Sexuality and Disability, Vol. 5, No. 3), the authors discussed how health professionals can help patients with scoliosis, how back pain, and cerebral palsy achieve more confidence as sexual beings and improve their ability to experience sexual satisfaction. The current article, the second in the series, describes how selected musculoskeletal conditions causing pain, deformity, and loss of joint motion may affect sexual expression and recommends specific ways in which these problems can be dealt with, such as patient education and preparation for sexual encounters. The following musculoskeletal conditions, including case histories, discussions and illustrative figures, are covered:

• 1. Rheumatoid arthritis and total hip replacement;

• 2. Amputations;

• 3. Trauma (casts and open wounds).