The Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Alliance (ARMA) launched a bold new five year strategy to make musculoskeletal (MSK) health a national priority
MSK conditions are the leading cause of pain and disability, affecting more than 20 million people. They limit independence, reduce healthy life expectancy, drive economic inactivity and place major pressure on health and care services. Yet MSK health remains consistently overlooked in national policy and investment.
ARMA’s 2026 - 2031 strategy, 20 Million Reasons, sets out how the UK wide alliance of patient organisations, professional bodies, including those representing the independent sector, and research groups will change that. It commits ARMA to securing stronger political and senior NHS leadership, shifting the system towards prevention and neighbourhood based support, tackling inequalities, and improving access to timely, effective MSK care.
The strategy positions MSK health as fundamental to the nation’s wellbeing and prosperity and calls for collective action to make it impossible to ignore. It emphasises that improving MSK outcomes depends on ensuring that people can access timely, person centred care and treatment, backed by a strong MSK workforce across NHS, independent and community settings.
Adrian Bradley, Chief Executive of ARMA, said:
“MSK health must not be overlooked. It’s central to our nation’s health and prosperity. If we invest in prevention, whole system change and better treatment and care in every community, we can improve millions of lives and secure a decade of better health and wellbeing.”
Chris Martey, Chair of ARMA, said:
“ARMA exists because no single organisation can achieve the change we need alone. By working together, we have a stronger voice and a greater ability to influence policy, services and public understanding.”
ARMA's new strategy comes at a critical moment for UK healthcare, and we fully support its call for system-wide change. It aligns with our case for AHP recognition: that the NHS should be able to systematically commission and refer to regulated chiropractors as part of community-based MSK pathways.
We're proud to be part of ARMA and to contribute to this collective voice.