Special Issue Nutrition and Musculoskeletal Health

Abstract

Musculoskeletal conditions include more than 150 conditions globally affecting the locomotor system, and it is estimated that they are the second largest contributor to disability worldwide. Many of these conditions increase with age, such as osteoporosis and associated fragility fractures, osteoarthritis, and sarcopenia. With age, the musculoskeletal system shows increased bone fragility, loss of cartilage resilience, loss of muscular mass and strength, and fat redistribution, leading to a decreased overall physical functioning [1]. Musculoskeletal conditions are, therefore, of great interest in geriatric medicine, since they are responsible for a large percentage of loss of autonomy and reduced ability to participate in social activities, with a major, negative impact on quality of life [2]. The loss of mobility and physical independence resulting from these conditions can be particularly devastating in the older population, also in terms of increased mortality rates [3, 4]. In view of the public health relevance that musculoskeletal conditions have in all regions of the world, WHO has proposed recently the Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) approach, which identifies the need to improve musculoskeletal function through a range of interventions, with nutrition and exercise as key components [5]. In this special issue of Aging Clinical and Experimental Research, Prof. Jean-Yves Reginster and Dr. Nicola Veronese have collected the most recent clinical and research evidence on the nutritional interventions in the prevention and treatment of musculoskeletal diseases in the aged population. Many outstanding authors have brought to their manuscript a wealth of clinical experience and scientific expertise, and have provided state-of-the art knowledge in this field. I am confident that this special issue will prove to be an invaluable reference for our readers in their research and clinical work. Compliance with ethical standards