Indiana University School of Medicine researchers, educators and clinicians are collaborating to better understand and treat a broad range of diseases and disorders of the musculoskeletal system — bones, muscles, and joints. Bone fractures, back pain, osteoporosis and other issues of bone metabolism and repair, cancer, bone marrow failure, cachexia (muscle wasting) and more are affecting increasing numbers of people, especially as the baby boom generation ages. Nearly half of all Americans have reported having a chronic musculoskeletal disorder.

In 2011, the cost of musculoskeletal diseases was estimated at $796.3 billion, or 5.7 percent of the US National Gross Domestic Product. A tremendous need exists for new approaches for treating musculoskeletal diseases.

At clinical partner facilities near campuses throughout Indiana, IU School of Medicine offers elective rotations in musculoskeletal health to enable medical students to grow their understanding and skills in bone disease, muscle and joints conditions and other aspects of the musculoskeletal system.