Abstract
With the increasing number of people suffering from pain or limitation of daily activities as a result of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system, it is essential to develop strategies to prevent both the occurrence of these conditions and the impact of these conditions.
The Bone and Joint Decade initiative was developed around the core issue of improving the health related quality of life for those afflicted with a musculoskeletal condition. It was recognised that at most levels within the health care system or within society, the impact of these conditions today and for the future were underestimated both regarding number and regarding consequences; disability, handicap, societal implications or costs. The increasing population of elderly, reaching above 20% within the next 20 year, will further augment the problem within Europe, as these conditions also increase with advancing age.
In order to make a change, strategies needs to be developed addressing a number of issues: what is the incidence and prevalence of these conditions today, what is burden in terms of economic and societal costs, what is the impact on the individual and what is the outcome for the individual with optimal care but also with sub-optimal care. From systematic reviews of evidence-based interventions and collation of guidelines, recommendations for strategies including multiprofessional approaches have been developed. The evidence for interventions is identified in terms of effectiveness in dealing with symptoms, tissue damage, activities and participation. Policies can than be based on what is achievable and what is needed after local adaptation.
Theses abstracts were prepared by Professor Dr. Frantz Langlais. Correspondence should be addressed to him at EFORT Central Office, Freihofstrasse 22, CH-8700 Küsnacht, Switzerland.
