Influencing policy and care together for best lifelong musculoskeletal health.
Act Now! to tackle unequal health outcomes in MSK health
ARMA has published the Act Now Report of the Inquiry on Musculoskeletal Health Inequalities and Deprivation.
Our report sets out the evidence for inequalities in MSK health related to deprivation and explores the possible underlying reasons as well as the potential solutions, providing practical advice and signposting for health system reformers.
ARMA’s ambition is to reduce these health inequalities and ensure everyone can access the highest quality health and care, regardless of their background or where they live.
Please see our MSK Health Inequalities page for more on the Act Now! report and resources.
Report: ICB Approach to
In March 2024, ARMA sent FOI requests to all 42 Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) in England to assess their leadership and strategic priorities for MSK services.
The responses revealed that almost one in four ICBs have no lead for MSK, and almost one in four have no priorities for MSK.
We conclude from this that too many ICBs are giving insufficient attention to the MSK servers they oversee and commission to comply with their statutory duties.
ARMA is an umbrella body bringing together patient organisations and professional bodies representing the breadth of musculoskeletal health.
Our vision for musculoskeletal (MSK) health: the MSK health of the population is promoted throughout life; everyone with MSK conditions receives appropriate, high quality interventions to promote their health and well-being in a timely manner.
ARMA produces a monthly e-newsletter which will keep you up to date with news from our members and the MSK sector.
Social Prescribing
Aimed at linkworkers and social prescribers, ARMA alliance’s social prescribing document signposts to useful services to support people with a musculoskeletal condition. Visit the social prescribing page.
Pain and 
Pain is a leading symptom of musculoskeletal conditions. It affects millions in the UK and its impact can stop people from working, socialising and enjoying life. The ARMA alliance co-produced resources on chronic pain: see the Alliance’s guidance, recommendations and reports.
COVID-19 / Coronavirus
We have collated information and advice on the coronavirus outbreak and MSK conditions including key guidance for professionals and sources of information for patients.
Partnerships for Best MSK Health – 
As we rebuild services and support after the pandemic, how can we ensure we deliver the best MSK health for the population?
Andrew Bennett, National Clinical Director MSK, NHSE/I, outlined the direction of travel for MSK services and support. This was followed by a panel discussion.
ARMA’s Policy Positions
ARMA position papers bring together information, evidence and policy recommendations on a range of key issues. They are developed with our members and represent an agreed position shared by the musculoskeletal community.