Musculoskeletal disorders in Russia at the end of the 20th century.

The situation with musculoskeletal disorders in Russia is described. Developments include markedly increased musculoskeletal morbidity in both adults and children. The burden of disease has also increased both from a medical and socioeconomic standpoint, as the numbers of disabled continue to grow. Recent initiatives under the auspices of the Institute of Rheumatology of the Russian Academy of the Medical Sciences, as well as state support for the Bone and Joint Decade, are highlighted.