Impact of COVID 19 on Musculoskeletal Health

The two key aspects of maintaining musculoskeletal health are being physically active and sustaining good mental health. Both have been to some extent affected due to the restrictions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, lockdown and shielding. The anxiety around the pandemic and the effects of social isolation has contributed to the deterioration of mental health in some people.

Planned care for people with underlying MSK conditions has been disrupted, with routine follow up appointments, operations and procedures cancelled. Longer term this is problematic for the NHS, causing further disruption and complications for people who are in pain and waiting for treatment.

The pandemic has created opportunity for innovative practice, new resources and the use of digital technology to promote health and wellbeing. The culture for home working has expanded with the introduction of technology and equipment to host virtual meetings i.e. zoom and Teams. However, this brings with it increased risks to MSK health, such as workstations that may not set be safe, regular physical activity breaks are not part of the work day.

Leaders from across the health and social care sector have been working in collaboration to provide consistent public health messages and advice aimed at the public and care protocols and procedures to guide health care professionals on managing the short term and long-term impact of COVID 19.