Arthritis News & Musculoskeletal News from ARMA's Members

Evaluating the impact of a new digital intervention

Good Boost Digital exercise programme boosts outcomes for MSK patients

A large-scale evaluation of a community-based digital exercise programme for people with MSK conditions has demonstrated significant improvements in physical function, mental wellbeing, and healthcare cost-efficiency.

Published in the Musculoskeletal Care journal, the study tracked more than 4,400 participants across the UK who engaged with Good Boost, a digital exercise programme delivered both at home and in community leisure centres via tablet computers. The intervention includes bespoke water- and land-based exercise sessions that adapt to each participant’s condition, goals, and feedback.…

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Disability benefit changes – what they mean

In June, Versus Arthritis launched their Cut to the Bone campaign, calling on the UK Government to rethink its proposed cuts to disability benefits. In response, almost 40,000 people emailed their MPs, calling on them to vote against these cuts.

The campaign really made a difference. People with arthritis came together to call for change, so Versus Arthritis is pleased that the UK Government listened to our community and announced their U-turn on PIP.

However, despite the changes, we want to ensure that the UK Government doesn’t simply delay proposed cuts to PIP or make changes to eligibility criteria in the future.…

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Guest blog: How can the 10 Year Health Plan deliver?

How can the 10 Year Health Plan deliver for people with musculoskeletal conditions?

by Deborah Alsina MBE, Chief Executive of Versus Arthritis

Like many others, Versus Arthritis has closely engaged with the development of the 10 Year Health Plan and has spent some time analysing it since its publication. In this blog, we take a closer look at the Plan and what needs to happen to make it work for the 17 million people living with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions in England.…

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FSEM Diplomas and Specialty Exam

SEM Specialty Exam

The Sport and Exercise Medicine Specialty Exam (Part 1) represents the highest standards of assessment in the field. Recognised for its rigour, credibility, and professional stature, this examination is a key milestone for clinicians aspiring for excellence in Sport and Exercise Medicine.

Find out more and apply today

FSEM Diploma Exams 2026

The Faculty runs diploma examinations within Sport and Exercise Medicine, ensuring those working within the industry can evidence their competency in their profession. The three strands of Sport and Exercise Medicine have seen high levels of interest across a number of professions.…

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RA Awareness Week 2025 is next month!

Mark your diaries for RA Awareness Week 2025, which is taking place September 15th – 19th 2025, with the theme centred around teaching people about the symptoms of RA.

The National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS) has put together a symptom checker which will go live next month to help raise the awareness of this invisible condition and get more people diagnosed if they are unknowingly showing symptoms. More details to follow, so keep your eyes peeled!

ORUK event – Collision sports injury conference

Collision sports injury conference
10 October 2025
The Berkeley Hotel, London

A one-day ORUK event focused on managing complex injuries in high-energy collision sports. Topics include ACL injuries, shoulder dislocations, Achilles ruptures, spinal trauma, and concussion. Join national and international experts for case-based discussions and the latest in return-to-play strategies.

Further information from the website.

ORUK event – Modern hip resurfacing

Modern hip resurfacing: Technique, innovation, and global perspectives

3 October 2025
The Berkeley Hotel, London

Join leading experts to explore the resurgence of hip resurfacing at this CPD-accredited ORUK event. The programme covers the latest in implant technology, surgical techniques, and the anterior approach, with lectures, case discussions, and debates. Designed for orthopaedic consultants, trainees, and physiotherapists.

Further information from the ORUK website.

The iO publishes innovative new case study

In response to recent NHS strategy agreements encouraging greater involvement from independent sector providers, the Institute of Osteopathy has published a new case study showcasing successful integration in practice.

City Way Health Clinic, an award-winning, osteopath-led musculoskeletal service, demonstrates how independent providers can support NHS objectives by delivering high-quality, evidence-informed osteopathic care and rehabilitation exercise classes to NHS patients. The clinic’s success provides compelling evidence that this collaborative model can reduce waiting lists, expand service capacity, and enhance patient choice.

Read the case study here.

ARMA Newsletter blog July 2025

by Adrian Bradley, CEO ARMA

Welcome to the latest ARMA newsletter.

My first month has flown by. I have been delighted to meet many members, partners and stakeholders and to listen to your hopes, ambitions and concerns. I will continue to be in listening mode as we navigate our way towards creating our strategy for 2026 and beyond.

Several people have said to me how difficult it must be to start at such a time of change. It was forever thus.…

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Community of Practice meeting – 5 August 2025

MSK Health Inequalities Community of Practice Meeting

Are you working to reduce inequalities in MSK health? Would you welcome a chance to connect with others tackling the same challenges?

Take a break and join us online for our next lunchtime meet-up.

Tuesday 5 August 2025
12:30pm – 1:30pm

ARMA’s MSK Health Inequalities Community of Practice is a welcoming space for anyone committed to improving MSK health equity. Whether you’re just starting out or already involved in local projects, this monthly session is a great way to:

Hear short presentations on key issues and innovative approaches
Take part in small group discussions to share ideas and experiences
Build supportive connections with others facing similar challenges

Why join?…

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