Prevalance and impact
MSK conditions are the leading cause of disability in the UK and one of the biggest contributors to the nation’s health and economic challenges.
They are:
- The most common cause of workplace sickness absence
- A leading cause of economic inactivity
- Responsible for up to 30% of GP consultations in England
- A major contributor to demand for outpatient care and surgery.
The economic impact is substantial, costing the UK billions each year through lost productivity, healthcare costs and reduced participation in work.
As the population ages and more people live with multiple long term conditions, the impact of MSK health on health services, employment and social care will continue to grow.
Because MSK conditions affect mobility and function, they often determine whether people can manage other long term conditions effectively and maintain independence.