Ribbing disease
Overview
A rare disorder primarily involving abnormal development of bone tissue inside parts of some long bones - particularly in the lower legs.
Symptoms
Bone abnormality Bone pain Asymptomatic
Treatment
The aim of treatment is to shorten exacerbations and relieve neurologic deficits so that the patient can resume a normal lifestyle. Those with relapsing-remitting courses are placed on immune modulating therapy, with interferon or glatiramer acetate. Steroids are used to reduce the associated edema of the myelin sheath during exacerbations. Other drugs include baclofen, tizanidine, or diazepam to relieve spasticity, cholinergic agents to relieve urine retention and minimize frequency and urgency, amantadine to relieve fatigue, and antidepressants to help with mood or behavioral symptoms. During acute exacerbations, supportive measures include bed rest, comfort measures such as massages, prevention of fatigue, prevention of pressure ulcers, bowel and bladder training (if necessary), administration of antibiotics for bladder infections, physical therapy, and counseling. Physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and support groups are also useful. Planned exercise programs help with maintaining muscle tone.