As anyone that’s ever experienced bone or joint discomfort can tell you, the musculoskeletal system is something we depend on dearly. Our bodies are the crucial tools we use to navigate our world and enjoy our lives. It is when we’re in pain that we realize how often we take our good health for granted. With Bone and Joint Health Action Week happening from October 12th to the 20th., we will be raising awareness about the prevention, management, and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders.

When Bone and Joint Health Goes Bad

Our bones and joints make up our musculoskeletal foundation which is key to our well-being.  So if we develop musculoskeletal disorders such as arthritis, back pain, spinal deformity, trauma, pediatric conditions, or osteoporosis, that greatly affects our productivity and quality of life. 

However, musculoskeletal conditions are not rare or unusual outliers. The CDC reports that more than 1 out of every 2 adults in the United States have reported a musculoskeletal condition - that’s a whopping total of 124 million Americans struggling with their bone or joint health.

The Big Deal About Bone and Joint Health

Statistics show that musculoskeletal conditions are some of the most widespread and damaging health conditions today. Consider the numbers:

• 18% of healthcare visits are driven by musculoskeletal disorders
• Bone and joint conditions cause long-term pain and physical disabilities that affect millions of people worldwide
• Musculoskeletal disorders surpass all other conditions as the cause of lost workdays
• Treatment and lost wages for musculoskeletal disorders are costing an estimated $213 billion annually

Considering the heavy impact that musculoskeletal disorders have on individuals and the community at large, the upcoming Bone and Joint Health Action Week is a vital opportunity for raising much-needed awareness.

All About Bone and Joint Health Action Week

This important event will highlight crucial issues facing musculoskeletal health progress, including awareness for certain disorders and education for keeping yourself healthy. Below is a breakdown of each of the five days in the upcoming Bone and Joint Health Action Week:

• October 12th —World Arthritis Day: Arthritis is a debilitating musculoskeletal disorder that is the leading cause of disability in the United States. On this day, we’ll be highlighting all those affected by this disorder: from those who are struggling with arthritis, to those who are receiving treatment, and to those who are creating legislation and support.
  
• October 16th — World Spine Day: The spine is one of those crucial body parts we often overlook until we no longer have that luxury. This day is all about focusing on the vital role that exercise, posture, and other best practices play in keeping your spine in good health.
  
• October 17th — World Trauma Day: On World Trauma Day, the focus is placed on bringing helpful information to the forefront for aiding in the treatment and prevention of traumatic injuries.
  
• October 19th — World Pediatric Bone and Joint (PB&J) Day: Children are affected by musculoskeletal disorders as well. World PB&J Day is when the conditions children face are the main focus – along with how healthcare providers and the general public can rally around and provide support.
  
• October 20 —World Osteoporosis Day: On this day, the importance of working towards the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis will be highlighted. Considering this disorder is only set to increase within the population, the day will also focus on the crucial role of early action in preventing and treating osteoporosis through exercise and healthier food choices.

What You Can Do

Taking your bone and joint health seriously is a major step towards great health. Events like Bone and Joint Health Action Week are designed to help you get the information and momentum you need to kickstart your journey towards better health. Consider educating yourself and others on the importance of the musculoskeletal system as well as making healthy changes to your diet and lifestyle in order to get a head start on prevention.

At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, we know your health is important to you — it’s important to us, too. If you’re ready to do all you can to take your health into your hands, reach out to us at (708) 237-7200 or request an appointment online so we can help you improve your health!