If you suffer from debilitating musculoskeletal pain and feel others don't understand what you are going through, here's your chance to have your say.
One in three Australians lives with a musculoskeletal condition and a 2020 study by Musculoskeletal Australia found the majority suffer in silence.
A new survey - launched on October 31 - aims to give people who suffer from chronic musculoskeletal pain a stronger voice on the issues that impact them.
Back pain and arthritis are just two of the 150 painful muscle, bone and joint conditions which affect Australians.
Musculoskeletal Australia chief executive Helen Jentz said the new survey was all about "lifting the cloak of invisibility".
"The 2020 survey painted a very clear and confronting picture of the painful reality of life with a musculoskeletal condition," Ms Jentz said.
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"Because these conditions and their impacts are not always seen or discussed, those living with them feel completely invisible."
The National Musculoskeletal Consumer Survey will build on findings from 2020 - mapping changes over time and exploring the financial burden of musculoskeletal conditions.
The survey's launch coincided with Rattle Ya Bones Day, and it will be open until December 31.
According to the Australian Institute of Health, musculoskeletal conditions are the third highest contributor to the nation's disease burden when it comes to non-fatal conditions.
Musculoskeletal Australia has partnered with the Australian Rheumatology Association and Painaustralia for the survey.
About musculoskeletal conditions in Australia:
- Musculoskeletal conditions are the world's leading contributor to disability, with low back pain being the single leading cause
- Conditions include back pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia and gout
- Musculoskeletal conditions are the third highest contributor to Australia's burden of disease at 4.2 per cent
- Musculoskeletal Australia is a national organisation committed to delivering quality services and support to Australians living with musculoskeletal conditions
Contact the nurse-led National Arthritis and Back Pain+ Help Line on 1800-263-265 or email helpline@msk.org.au. To complete the survey, visit Musculoskeletal Australia's web page by clicking here.
