Achievements during the Bone and Joint Decade 2000–2010

Musculoskeletal diseases continue to produce major disability around the world. Advances in therapy – particularly for the inflammatory diseases – have the potential to eradicate the inflammation and thus prevent joint destruction. Surgical advances include minimally invasive and computer-assisted robotic surgery, and advances in arthroscopic surgery. The development of new musculoskeletal tissues – tendons, cartilage and bone using nanotechnology and stem cells – has the potential to revolutionise the way we approach these chronic destructive diseases as well as major trauma. With the rapid increase in these conditions with an ageing population, new models of care will need to be developed to ensure that the right care is delivered at the right time by the most appropriately trained health professional and at a reasonable cost. The Bone and Joint Decade has played a significant role in focussing researchers, clinicians and health educators on these diseases and also in drawing them to the attention of Governments around the globe. While there is still much to be done, the journey has commenced and will continue into the future with education, research and service delivery into these important conditions being further enhanced.