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The impact of obesity on the musculoskeletal system

Abstract

Obesity is associated with a range of disabling musculoskeletal conditions in adults. As the prevalence of obesity increases, the societal burden of these chronic musculosketelal conditions, in terms of disability, health-related quality of life, and health-care costs, also increases. Research exploring the nature and strength of the associations between obesity and musculoskeletal conditions is accumulating, providing a better understanding of underlying mechanisms. Weight reduction is important in ameliorating some of the manifestations of musculoskeletal disease and improving function.

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Acknowledgements

Ananthila Anandacoomarasamy holds a National Health and Medical Research Council Medical Postgraduate Research Scholarship (ID number 402901).

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Anandacoomarasamy, A., Caterson, I., Sambrook, P. et al. The impact of obesity on the musculoskeletal system. Int J Obes 32, 211–222 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.ijo.0803715

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