MSK247.com - a musculoskeletal forum for chiropractors, osteopaths and physiotherapists

From a professional point of view, working up here in Anglesey can be lonely at times. North Wales is a long way from the rest of the UK, and the distances required to travel to professional meetings and conferences can be prohibitive. Not that I'm complaining - I wouldn't swap the beaches, hills and wide-open spaces for anything (particularly after a day on the beach in the glorious sunshine, watching the waves and the seagulls).

However, I am not alone in having this sense of isolation. It is something that I know is felt by many of my chiropractic peers, and colleagues within the other musculoskeletal specialities of osteopathy and physiotherapy, even though that practice in more urban areas. As a social animal, we strive the interaction, validation and acceptance by our fellow humans. Prolonged isolation can lead to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity.

Having identified this requirement for social and professional interaction, we've set up MSK247.com This online professional forum is an unbiased 'virtual' arena where like-minded health care specialists, particularly those that specialise in the  treatment of musculoskeletal problems (i.e. problems with the muscles and joints) can get together and discuss topics of interest. We encourage all topics to be covered - from queries about the management of specific complaints, links to useful websites, to heated rants and rhetorical polemic. Whilst aimed specifically at chiropractors, osteopaths and physiotherapists, the site is open to all with an interest in the musculoskeletal system, or just as a place to post (we have 'off topic' discussions too!). You simply have to register, and start posting!

Hopefully, whilst not fulfilling the real social contact and useful chat over a mug of coffee between patients, it will provide the informal contact that so many of us need. In addition, it should help to unite those of us in practising in the wider musculoskeletal world.

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