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Our group is working on a range of projects to develop, evaluate and introduce modern therapy technologies in the National Health Service. Our work focuses on people who have life changing musculoskeletal injury and / or substantial chronic health conditions.

We are leading research into how exercise and physiotherapy can be used to support the rehabilitation of patients with acute musculoskeletal injuries such as a fracture or sprain, and patients with chronic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or persistent back pain. 

We work with investigators from a range of clinical disciplines and the Oxford Clinical Trials Research Unit (OCTRU) to ensure that our evaluation of technologies is of the highest quality.

Our research has been instrumental in informing the work of national and local health care commissioners in deciding the best use of limited health resources.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Development of a new talking group therapy for patients with chronic low back. This is the most cost-effective treatment available to date and has long term benefits.
  • Helping the NHS to resolve the debate around the treatment of whiplash injuries.
  • Showing plaster casting is the most effective management for severe ankle sprains.
  • Hand exercises are an important adjunct to expensive medication for rheumatoid arthritis (SARAH Trial).

Context

There are approximately 9.6 million adults in England with musculoskeletal conditions, such as back pain or arthritis. This costs the UK economy around £7.4 billion a year through lost working days. There is evidence demonstrating that early intervention with physiotherapy delivers significant, cost-effective clinical improvements for these patients.

Our research

We are currently undertaking work on a range of projects to develop, evaluate and introduce modern therapy approaches for application in the NHS, in the UK. 

Our research focuses on creating effective interventions that can be utilised by health professionals and patients and our work spans a range of musculoskeletal conditions, patient populations and approaches to rehabilitation.

Led by Professor Sallie Lamb, RRIO is a multidisciplinary group representing a range of disciplines including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, exercise science, cognitive behavioural therapy, health psychology, sociology and statistics. The team have significant clinical experience and expertise in a range of research methodologies. Our portfolio comprises largely of studies which evaluate complex interventions through large pragmatic randomised controlled trials, funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).

 


Our research in action

Highlights

  • Development of a new talking group therapy for patients with chronic low back. This is the most cost-effective treatment available to date and has long term benefits.
  • Helping the NHS to resolve the debate around the treatment of whiplash injuries.
  • Showing plaster casting is the most effective management for severe ankle sprains.
  • Hand exercises are an important adjunct to expensive medication for rheumatoid arthritis (SARAH Trial).

Related research themes