Effects of alcohol on bone, muscle and nerve.

Abstract

The acute and chronic effects of alcohol on bone, muscle and peripheral nerves are not well appreciated. Bone complications include traumatic fractures, osteoporosis and osteonecrosis. In muscle, a sustained bout of heavy drinking may cause rhabdomyolysis, while chronic alcohol abuse may produce proximal myopathy. In peripheral nerves, acute alcohol intoxication may lead to pressure neuropathy and chronic abuse may cause peripheral neuropathy.