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Muscles, bones and joints

Nothing might sound easier than putting one foot in front of the other. But it actually needs a whole orchestra of support. A person needs more than half of their 720 muscles, 200 bones and 68 joints to take a step. Some of the joints have a weakness though: their durability. With age, wear and tear lead to problems in the knees, hips, shoulders and back. These are some of the most common health problems - along with injuries to the muscles, bones and joints at any age.

Feature: Preventing osteoporosis

What are the major risk factors for osteoporosis? Why do some people's bones break more easily when they are older? Does smoking influence bone health? Can exercise prevent bones becoming brittle? These and other interesting questions are discussed in our Fact Sheet. And you can use our calculator for a rough check on whether you are getting enough calcium.

Research summaries

Achilles tendon injury: Operation or orthotics?

Surgery for a torn Achilles tendon means a bit less chance of a new tear than with treatments that keep the leg immobilised. But adverse effects from surgery are common, including wound infections. more...

Carpal tunnel syndrome: Do corticosteroid injections work?

Corticosteroids injected directly into the wrist can temporarily relieve carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. This local injection has a longer effect than taking corticosteroid tablets or injecting corticosteroids into a blood vessel or muscle. A second injection might not add benefit. more...