The psychological, social and economic impact of musculoskeletal conditions

This project is investigating the psychological, social and economic impact of musculoskeletal conditions. It is funded in partnership with Versus Arthritis as part of our Oliver Bird Fund.

Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions refer to a wide range of health conditions affecting joints, muscles, bones and pain syndromes. They impact many aspects of life, including psychological wellbeing, quality of life, ability to work, and social and community engagement.

However, existing studies on MSK conditions and interventions have relied largely on cross-section studies or clinical samples. This project will undertake analysis using large-scale longitudinal representative datasets, as these will allow for a more nuanced understanding of MSK conditions. 

Research methods

In the first phase of research, data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) will be combined with the UK Household Longitudinal Study. Individuals who developed osteoarthritis (also rheumatoid arthritis in ELSA), and onset and persistence of chronic pain between each wave of data collection will be identified and compared to similar individuals who did not.

The analysis will compare differential outcomes in:

• psychological wellbeing
• social relationships
• engagement in social, leisure, and community activities
• employment
• and financial circumstances.

The project will also explore ‘quality of life’. The researchers will identify components that are amenable to change, the impact of partners and family members, patterns among racial and ethnic minority groups and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.  

In the second phase, the project will use large scale datasets to explore the impact of social prescribing, an increasingly common intervention where people are referred to a range of activities in their communities. They will use the Elemental database, which is widely used by GPs to track social prescriptions, and ELSA. Outcomes of people with MSK conditions who take up the activities will be compared with those who don’t, and the team will assess the rate of social prescribing and how referrals vary by individual characteristics.  

Outcomes

The findings will be shared with key stakeholders, including:

• individuals with lived experience and the public
• health and social care professionals
• academics
• and policy makers.

The research team will partner with the What Works Centre for Wellbeing to help reach people across government and policy bodies. Webinars, short briefings, and infographics will be produced for health and social care professionals.

The final project report will be available to download on this webpage.