Worldwide, orthopaedic surgeons, rheumatologists physical therapists and medical and patient health associations are joining together for the Bone and Joint Decade 2000-2010 to advance understanding and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders through prevention, education and research.
Musculoskeletal conditions have an enormous impact on society.
Musculoskeletal conditions affect children and adults. 1 out of every 7 Americans reports a musculoskeletal impairment. Each year, 28.6 million Americans incur musculoskeletal injuries . 2 More than 50 percent of American injuries are to the musculoskeletal system. 3 Arthritis , which affects more than 15.3 million older people, is the leading chronic condition reported by Americans age 65 and older.