Reimagining Triage in Musculoskeletal Health Care

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) represent a significant burden on healthcare systems globally. Traditionally, the approach to managing MSDs has followed a triage model, with interventions typically starting from the most invasive or aggressive options and progressing towards more conservative measures if needed. However, evidence suggests that this approach may be fundamentally flawed, as it fails to prioritize the least invasive and most cost-effective treatments. A paradigm shift towards a more patient-centric and evidence-based model is needed. It entails flipping the current model on its head, starting with the most conservative and evidence-based interventions first and escalating only if necessary. This approach holds the potential for significantly improved patient outcomes and cost savings.