Ankylosing spondylitis - Centre for Musculoskeletal Health and Work
Disease - Ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, back pain
Lead applicant - Professor Karen Walker-Bone
Organisation - University of Southampton
Type of grant - Centre of Excellence Full
Status of grant - Active
Amount of the original award - £1,400,000
Start date - 1 October 2014
Reference - 20665
Public Summary
What are the aims of this research?
The Arthritis Research UK-MRC Centre for Musculoskeletal Health and Work, based at the University of Southampton, is a world-leading centre focused on addressing major research questions to reduce the impact of musculoskeletal disorders such as back pain and arthritis in the workplace.
By collaborating with teams from across the UK, the centre aims to:
- Identify cost-effective ways to minimise the impact of musculoskeletal conditions in the workplace.
- Train a future generation of researchers in this field
- Establish a national resource for advice on musculoskeletal health and work, accessible to Government, employers, workers, health professionals and patients, and actively promoting best work and clinical practice.
Why is this research important?
Back pain, arthritis and other conditions of musculoskeletal pain are some of the main causes of incapacity for work in the UK, accounting for loss of 10 million working days per year at a cost of £7 billion. However, there are currently major deficiencies in scientific evidence that would inform policies and interventions aimed at reducing this burden.
By utilising the breadth of knowledge and skills developed at the centre, the main musculoskeletal causes of work impairment can be better recognised and understood.
How will the findings benefit patients?
The work of this centre will enable workplace and work-related musculoskeletal conditions to be properly addressed, reducing the number of working days lost to these conditions and benefiting patients, workers, employers, and society at large.