Arthritis Research UK call for musculoskeletal conditions to be central to future multimorbidity plans

This report sets out why musculoskeletal conditions must be included in future plans to address multimorbidity and makes seven clear recommendations for change.Musculoskeletal conditions affect around 10 million people across the UK, and are often found in people with other long-term conditions. The report reveals that among people over 45 years with a major long-term condition, more than 30% also have arthritis. By age 65, almost half of people with a heart, lung or mental health problem also have arthritis. Conversely, 80% of people with osteoarthritis have at least one other long-term condition such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease or depression.Recognising the interactionIt's essential to recognise the interaction between musculoskeletal conditions and other health problems. Any long-term condition is associated with a drop in quality of life, but when arthritis or back pain is part of multimorbidity, the drop is greater. The pain and functional limitations of arthritis make it harder to cope when living with other long-term conditions.Dr Liam O’Toole, Chief Executive Officer at Arthritis Research UK, comments: "It’s clear that good musculoskeletal health underpins people’s ability to live well and independently with multiple long-term conditions. During our research, people told us that having good musculoskeletal health helps them manage; they can open pill packets, change dressings, travel to doctors’ appointments and stay as ac...
Source: Arthritis Research UK - Category: Rheumatology Source Type: news