TECHNOLOGY THAT HEALS THE BACKBONE OF SOCIETY
From wearable devices to artificial intelligence – a new generation of solutions is improving quality of life, both at home and in the workplace.
Innovations in the Treatment of Musculoskeletal Conditions
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are among the most common health issues of our time. According to the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work, as many as 75% of employees in the EU report experiencing back or muscle pain.
In Slovenia, back and joint pain are the most frequently reported health problems among the population. In 2015, back pain alone accounted for over 41,000 cases of sick leave, averaging 25 days of absence per employee, with total costs exceeding EUR 42 million (sources: NIJZ, EU-OSHA).
The impact of musculoskeletal conditions goes far beyond physical pain. Chronic problems often lead to reduced work capacity, limitations in daily activities, and an increased incidence of mental distress. This is why comprehensive approaches that combine medicine, rehabilitation, and lifestyle changes are becoming increasingly essential.
Key Medical Fields in the Treatment of Musculoskeletal Conditions
Orthopaedics
Diagnosis and surgical treatment of injuries and degenerative disorders.
Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine
Targeted rehabilitation and comprehensive patient management.
Physiotherapy
Restoration of functionality, pain reduction, and prevention of re-injury.
Kinesiology
Prevention, promotion of physical activity, and tailored exercise programmes.
Rheumatology
Management of inflammatory and chronic rheumatic diseases.
Psychology and Neuroscience
Exploring the connection between physical pain, mental health, and cognitive processes.
Pain medicine
Specialised treatment of chronic pain using medical, pharmacological, and interventional approaches, often as part of rehabilitation.
Occupational Medicine
Focuses on workplace-related strain, ergonomics, and the prevention of injuries caused by repetitive movements or poor working conditions.
Examples of Good Practice
In Slovenia, digital tools for prescribing exercise programmes are already being used in clinical settings, while research institutions are developing new methods for monitoring movement patterns and improving workplace ergonomics.
Similar trends can be seen abroad:
In Denmark, large-scale ergonomic programmes in industry have reduced sick leave due to MSDs by 20%.
In Germany, tele-rehabilitation services are rapidly expanding.
In the United States, VR-based rehabilitation systems have been shown to increase patient motivation and speed up recovery.
Tele-rehabilitation
Digital Platforms for Exercise Prescription
Wearable Sensors and Artificial Intelligence
Kinesiological Prevention
Collaborative Research and Funding Opportunities
Progress in the management of musculoskeletal conditions is fastest where researchers, healthcare professionals, and companies work together—not only in developing innovations but also in jointly accessing funding opportunities.
European programmes such as Horizon Europe, EU4Health, and EIT Health provide grants, technical support, and access to international networks, significantly enhancing the potential for successful commercialisation of solutions.
Slovenian institutions are already involved in numerous European projects in rehabilitation and prevention, ensuring access to cutting-edge infrastructure, clinical environments, and global partnerships.
An overview of these projects will soon be available in a dedicated catalogue, highlighting Slovenian organisations actively contributing to innovation in the field of musculoskeletal health.
