Empowering patients, clinicians and employers to prioritise movement health can help ease the emerging musculoskeletal health challenge, according to Cigna Healthcare’s medical leaders.

Poor movement health is a leading cause of ill-health and death across the world. Risky health behaviours and sedentary lifestyles, often in the workplace, are at the core of the health challenge, leading to increased demand for MSK health services.

Cigna Healthcare’s own actuarial data shows claims for MSK-related care continue to grow at 6.8% every year.[1] Although the volume of in-patient services, such as surgeries, is easing, a growing number of people across the globe require outpatient services such as physiotherapy consultations.[2]

Addressing this mounting health challenge requires a system-wide rethink, according to Dr Stella George, Chief Medical Officer of Cigna Healthcare.

Dr George says not every MSK injury or patient is the same. Likewise, not every treatment is guaranteed to be effective.

“There are instances where conservative treatment, such as physiotherapy, has been used repeatedly for a long period and failed to improve a condition,” says Dr George. “Our responsibility is to educate and empower patients, clinicians, employers to find the solution that best fits the patient and condition.”

“There needs to be a global shift in how we deal with MSK health, focusing on prevention and broader well-being before targeted treatment.”

Dr George also says global MSK health can be improved through a greater focus on prevention, recovery and individual awareness.

“Our natural reaction to a musculoskeletal issue is to limit movement. However, moving the joints can keep them lubricated, maintain muscle and tendon health, prevent severity growth, improve mental well-being, and lead to better outcomes.”

Addressing sedentary behaviour and lifestyles does not solely fall on the individual. Employers have a particular responsibility to encourage regular movement in the workplace.

“Employees need to feel supported. Through workplace ergonomics, activities, breaks, incentives, or overhauling the way they view work, employers can have a significant impact on this public health risk and shift the focus to prevention.”

Dr George says the doctor’s clinic is often the best place to access resources and information on MSK health and the right treatment options.

[1] Data from Cigna Healthcare internal analysis as of July 2024. Subject to change.

[2] Ibid