MSK research – encompassing basic, clinical and translational – is essential in understanding the nature of MSK conditions and therefore identifying the best ways in which to treat and manage them at both individual and population level. It allows for the development of increasingly effective treatments, both clinical and pharmacological, capable of preventing the onset of symptoms and disease progression, of alleviating of pain and enabling the maintenance or return to mobility. MSK research generates the knowledge which underpins all informed, effective efforts at successfully dealing with the huge and growing burden of MSK conditions worldwide. Recent/ongoing research has demonstrated that MSK conditions are in fact foundational to many other widespread and serious conditions, by identifying the many and sometimes strong links which many MSK conditions have with cancer, diabetes, strokes, cardiovascular disease and others. Often MSK conditions provide risk factors for other widespread conditions, particularly strokes and diabetes. Effectively addressing MSK conditions provides an important platform for alleviating and managing many others including wider health issues such as obesity, and for preventing or mitigating the impact of traumatic events such as fragility fractures, all of which affect a large percentage of any population.