Musculoskeletal health - The case for action.

Abstract Musculoskeletal health is critical for human function, enabling mobility, dexterity and the ability to work and actively participate in all aspects of life. It is essential for maintaining economic, social and functional independence as well as human capital across the life course. Action is needed and the Global Alliance for Musculoskeletal Health (G-MUSC) is working with the entire musculoskeletal community to develop a global consensus on the important components of a global strategy. This will serve to influence and accelerate the priorities and actions of countries and international agencies such as the WHO. This issue aims to provide a background for developing such a global strategy for improving musculoskeletal health.