The hidden drivers of overspend and inefficiency in MSK care
A fresh dual-perspective survey, complete with real patient and provider stories, maps a clear path to more effective, unified care.
Why is the right MSK care still so hard to find?
Despite the $661B annual spend on MSK care, most of the 40% of adults who experience MSK pain still don’t know how to find relief.¹ ² The 2026 State of Musculoskeletal Care report reveals why.
There are four major misalignments in today’s MSK care
Confusing startNearly all providers (92%) agree that most MSK patients would benefit from starting physical therapy (PT) sooner, yet only 5% of patients saw a PT first.³
Unclear journeysOver half of patients report considerable challenges and uncertainty while seeking care. When care is delayed, 70% experience worse pain.³
Overlooked guidelines40% of providers say they lack the time or resources to help patients fully understand their condition and treatment options.³
Incomplete careMany providers say they address lifestyle factors, but relatively fewer patients report receiving this kind of support.
What patients are saying
“I saw four orthopedic surgeons over the years. No one ever suggested physical therapy. I did PT only after I had my surgeries — I can go up and down stairs normally for the first time.”
32% get varying advice from different doctors regarding MSK pain³
80% report that MSK pain limits their day-to-day activities³
Where providers are focusing
“I’ve seen many patients proceed quickly to surgery that didn’t relieve their pain and in retrospect, a thorough conservative assessment would likely have uncovered a better, less invasive path.”
34% say patients often get high-cost care before noninvasive options³
31% See patients who start care with the wrong type of provider³
Discover four key opportunities for your organization
Get people to the right care at the start of their journey.
Boost efficiency with thoughtful care coordination and navigation.
Help patients avoid expensive and unnecessary treatment.
Offer whole-person care that takes outcomes from good to great.
Start streamlining costs and improving care outcomes
Learn how to address misalignments that are causing inefficiencies and overspend in your organization.