Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, which affect the bones, muscles, and joints, are a significant public health concern in the United States. These disorders can cause severe pain, disability, and reduced quality of life.

From an economic perspective, the ripple effects are far-reaching. MSK conditions can be debilitating, forcing employees to take extended medical leave or retire early. The effects on productivity, loss of skilled workers, and associated health care costs place a heavy strain on individual employers and the economy.

To better understand the prevalence and trends of MSK conditions in the United States, we compiled the statistics below. The key insight: Addressing musculoskeletal health through improved access to treatment, preventive care, and innovative benefit solutions is crucial. By doing so, we can enhance the well-being of millions of Americans while bolstering workforce productivity and economic stability.

1. General prevalence

Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions such as arthritis, low back pain, and neck pain affect more than half of American adults. (Source: Evernorth Health Services)

2. Prevalence among older adults

MSK pain is most prevalent in older adults, with rates ranging from 20%–50%. Back pain and knee pain are the most frequent issues among this age group. (Source: Frontiers Pain Research)

3. Leading cause of disability

MSK conditions are the leading cause of disability in the U.S., accounting for more than half of all chronic conditions among people 18 and older. (Source: American Public Health Association)

4. Back pain

Low back pain is the most common MSK complaint, affecting nearly 65 million Americans each year. (Source: Health Policy Institute)

5. Economic impact

The estimated annual health care costs associated with musculoskeletal conditions in the U.S. exceed $420 billion. (Source: Evernorth Health Services)

6. Work absenteeism

More than 100 million workdays are lost annually due to MSK conditions. (Source: National Library of Medicine)

7. Industries with highest prevalence

While every major employment sector reports high prevalence of MSK conditions, health care and social assistance workers experienced the highest rate of musculoskeletal injuries and illnesses in 2021-2022. (Source: National Safety Council)

8. Primary care visits

MSK conditions account for 30%-40% of all primary care visits, second only to respiratory disorders. (Source: National Institute of Health)

9. Treatment

As many as 50% of people with musculoskeletal conditions don’t get the treatment they need. (Source: World Health Organization)

10. Surgery rates and costs

More than 1 million Americans have joint replacement surgery every year, including about 720,000 knee replacements and 330,000 hip replacements. Joint replacements cost an average of $16,500 to $33,000 and are the third most common type of surgery in the United States. (Source: Health Grades)

This content was created with the assistance of AI tools. It was reviewed, edited, and fact-checked by Cigna Healthcare's editorial team.