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musculoskeletal

American  
[muhs-kyuh-loh-skel-i-tl] / ˈmʌs kjə loʊˈskɛl ɪ tl /

adjective

  1. concerning, involving, or made up of both the muscles and the bones.

    the musculoskeletal system.


musculoskeletal British  
/ ˌmʌskjʊləʊˈskɛlɪtəl /

adjective

  1. of or relating to the skeleton and musculature taken together

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of musculoskeletal

First recorded in 1940–45; musculo- + skeletal

Vocabulary lists containing musculoskeletal

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Lilly had paid Boston-based Centrexion Therapeutics $47.5 million upfront for the exclusive worldwide rights to the drug, which was being developed for chronic inflammatory, neuropathic, and musculoskeletal pain.

From Barron's Jun. 16, 2026

The results suggest that collagen may help maintain certain aspects of musculoskeletal health over time, although the benefits were generally moderate rather than dramatic.

From Science Daily Jun. 5, 2026

Researchers also said the new category should cover lower back pain, common musculoskeletal conditions and neurodevelopmental disorders where evidence shows they are compatible with work.

From BBC Apr. 28, 2026

Research suggests that more than half of golfers will experience a musculoskeletal injury at some point in their playing careers.

From The Wall Street Journal Apr. 6, 2026

We’ve seen stem cell hype regurgitated by otherwise respectable news organizations, abetted by high-profile athletes attesting to miracle cures of their musculoskeletal ailments.

From Los Angeles Times Oct. 17, 2025

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