According to a recent report by the U.S. Bone and Joing Initiative (USBJI), an estimated 126.6 million Americans, and one in two adults, has a musculoskeletal condition. That’s more than double the amount of Americans living with chronic heart and lung conditions.
Musculoskeletal conditions affect bones, joints and muscles, and are often very painful and debilitating. Diminished daily quality of life, decreased mobility, and even reduced productivity-due to lost time at school or work – are also unfortunately typical.
The USBJI reports that nearly $213 billion is spent each year for treatment, care and lost wages of those suffering from a musculoskeletal condition. The average annual cost per person for treatment is upwards of $7,800.
The most common conditions are arthritis; back and neck pain; injuries from falls or sports; and osteoporosis, a loss of bone density affecting both men and women.
Additional report findings include:
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Arthritis is the most common cause of disability, with half of all U.S. adults age 65 and over suffering from the disease.
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Two-thirds of arthritis sufferers are actually under the age of 65.
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Osteoporosis affects 10 million Americans, with an estimated 19 million more currently at risk.
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One in two women, and one in four men, age 50 years and older, will suffer an osteoporosis-related fracture.
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Twenty percent of hip fracture patients, over age 50, will die within one year of the injury.
In order to help ease the burden of musculoskeletal conditions on patients, the medical community, and the economy, the USBJI recommends educating about the importance of behavior change in prevention and treatment (such as with weight management and other precautionary measures taken in daily life).
Also, improved coordination between primary care physicians, orthopedic specialists, physical therapists, and chiropractors could be instrumental in lessening the impact felt by so many dealing with these disorders.
If you or a loved one is suffering from a musculoskeletal condition, contact us for an appointment.
