About MSK health
What are MSK conditons?
Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions affect the bones, joints, muscles, spine and connective tissues. They include common conditions such as arthritis and back pain, as well as osteoporosis, inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, and rare connective tissue disorders.
Over 20 million people in the UK live with a MSK condition. While some develop later in life, many begin during working age and can affect people throughout the life course.
MSK health is a whole life course issue, influenced by physical activity, occupation, injury, environment and wider social determinants of health.
MSK conditions often involve:
- Persistent pain
- Fatigue
- Reduced mobility
- Loss of strength and function.
Many MSK conditions are long term and require ongoing management rather than cure. With the right support, many people can continue to live active and independent lives.
ARMA Members
ARMA’s member organisations provide trusted information and support for people living with MSK conditions.
You can find further information via the links in our members directory.