Musculoskeletal disorders adversely affect many diverse aspects of our health and well-being. In addition to the direct effects of joint and muscle pain and dysfunction, they often derail efforts to control hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and other medical conditions due to decreased mobility. Musculoskeletal disorders can limit educational opportunities, diminish earning capacity, change family dynamics, and stunt participation with other community activities associated with a fulfilling life. Physiatrists are experts in musculoskeletal care, and, while the value of this care might seem intuitive, describing and measuring it is extremely complex. Because musculoskeletal disorders often affect quality, rather than quantity, of life, they tend to be underemphasized in medical education and training, clinical practice, reimbursement schemes, and research funding.
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