Innovation in Musculoskeletal Health (ORUK MSK)

Introduction 

Orthopaedic Research UK is seeking to co-fund research applications in the October 2024 Product Development Award call 29 of the NIHR Invention for Innovation (i4i) programme with the aim of transforming Musculoskeletal (MSK) health outcomes through the application of emerging technologies. 

Background

The key findings of a recent horizon scan report by the NIHR Innovation Observatory and Orthopaedic Research UK indicated a relatively low level of technological innovation within MSK health compared to other health conditions. The largest proportion of innovative technologies identified, which included the use of apps, wearable devices, VR, AR and robotics, were being developed within the USA, followed by the UK. Read the report into level of innovation within MSK Health.

To make a significant contribution to the health of the majority of patients demanding support, and reduce the costs to the NHS, the application of advanced technology must be broadened and accelerated and access to data improved. Scepticism about the use of advanced technology to inform decision making in healthcare, among both healthcare professionals and patients, must also be countered. For further information on the potential application of AI to MSK health, we recommend ORUK’s AI in Orthopaedics Policy Paper.

Aim of the innovation in musculoskeletal health

This highlight notice is intended to support the research and development of advanced technology solutions to improve operational efficiencies and clinical outcomes in people with poor MSK health. 

The areas of focus should fall into any of the following areas:

• Prevention, improving public health awareness and MSK literacy
• Early diagnosis and intervention
• Self-management
• Treatment optimisation
• Monitoring
• Risk stratification
• Optimising clinical pathways
• Health economics

Applicants need to demonstrate:

• The novelty of the technology application – this can include the use of well-established technologies in novel ways to address new needs 
• What the unmet need is that the proposed technology solution addresses
• How project outcomes lead to improved MSK care and offer significant added value over current or alternative solutions
• How they ensure the acceptability of the technology to people with MSK conditions, their families, healthcare professionals and providers
• How the proposed innovative solution could impact or integrate into patients’ daily lives and NHS care pathways
• Consideration of potential commercialisation routes for the technology solution which will inform the clinical and health economic evidence that needs to be generated

How to apply

Research proposals must be within the remit of the Product Development Awards or Challenge Awards, please see the  Invention for Innovation (i4i) website for details. Research proposals are submitted through the Research Management System (RMS).

For more application guidance, visit:

• Supporting Information for Applicants

• FAQs

• Stage 1 Guidance for Applicants

• Stage 2 Guidance for Applicants

If you have any queries, please contact i4i@nihr.ac.uk  before submitting your application.

Important dates 

(Dates may be subject to change).