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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 …

Physical Inactivity

Periods of inactivity or sedentary behaviour are an independent risk factor for poor health outcomes and should be minimised when possible. There is strong evidence about the role physical activity …

Genetic predisposition to some MSK conditions

Most musculoskeletal disorders are polygenic disorders, with both genetic and environmental factors playing roles. The genetic influence and familial predisposition may be more considerable than expected. There is some evidence …

Alcohol and Substance Abuse

Alcohol and substance abuse can cause lasting damage to the musculoskeletal system and have a detrimental effect on bone microarchitecture. Alcohol abuse, can influence the severity of an individual’s experience …

Poor sleep quality and Insomnia

Poor sleep is associated with increased chronic pain and exacerbation of musculoskeletal symptoms. Sleep deprivation yields numerous detrimental effects on people and even mild sleep deprivation negatively affects pain sensitivity …

Is obesity linked to MSK conditions?

Population trends and surveys identify rising levels of obesity and inactivity both of which can be a causal factor and exacerbate the impact of some musculoskeletal conditions. Obesity has been …

MSK Links with Mental Health

Musculoskeletal conditions and mental health have a complex and reciprocal relationship, each exacerbating the other. Living with a painful condition can lead to depression and anxiety. Conversely, psychological distress and …

Collaboration for MSK Health

The module has been created by Ginder Narle, MSK Policy Implementation Manager & Nuzhat Ali, PHE National Lead, MSK Health with assistance from Wasima Nazmin, Programme Support Officer. We are …

The burden of MSK Health conditions

The burden of ill health falls disproportionally on those from the most deprived areas. Musculoskeletal conditions and multi-morbidity are more prevalent in more deprived populations compared to the least deprived …

Understanding MSK Data

Population health Population health is an approach that aims to improve physical and mental health outcomes, promote wellbeing and reduce health inequalities across an entire population. Population health data and …

Impact on Quality of Life

Pain is one of the main symptoms of MSK conditions. Pain makes everyday activities more difficult to cope with and limits a person’s ability to do the essential tasks of …

MSK Conditions

MSK conditions are a group of conditions that affect the bones, joints, muscles and spine, and are a common cause of severe long-term pain and physical disability. Musculoskeletal conditions are …

What is good musculoskeletal health?

Good musculoskeletal health is an important component of maintaining a person’s functional abilities throughout their life course and is fundamental to carrying out the daily activities for living and healthy …