Division of Musculoskeletal Diseases

Reviewed February 29, 2012

The musculoskeletal system is comprised of the skeleton, which provides mechanical support and determines shape; the muscles, which power movement; and connective tissues such as tendons and ligaments, which hold the other components together. The cartilage surfaces of joints and the intervertebral discs of the spine allow for movement and flexibility.

The Division of Musculoskeletal Diseases of the NIAMS supports research aimed at improving the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system and its component tissues. Key public health problems addressed by this research include osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, back and neck pain, and muscular dystrophy. Research is conducted at every level, from fundamental biology to clinical intervention. Research is managed under nine DMD scientific programs.

The description and program director contact information for each program can be found at the program link.

Division Director:
Joan McGowan, Ph.D. mcgowanj@mail.nih.gov

Conference Grant (R13/U13) Coordinator:
Theresa Smith smiththe@mail.nih.gov

Small Business Grant (R41/R42, R43/R44) Coordinator:
Xibin Wang, Ph.D. wangx1@mail.nih.gov

Contact Information:

Division of Musculoskeletal Diseases
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
National Institutes of Health
One Democracy Plaza, 6701 Democracy Blvd. Ste. 800
Bethesda, MD 20892-4872
Telephone: (301) 594-5055, FAX: (301) 480-4543