Lloyd Price
- Jun 26, 2023

Digital MSK: current investment trends and potential future innovation

What is Digital MSK?

Digital MSK, or digital musculoskeletal (MSK) care, refers to the use of technology and digital tools to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and management of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, muscles, and other connective tissues.

Digital MSK solutions can include telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring of patient symptoms and progress, digital platforms for self-assessment and self-management, and virtual physical therapy and rehabilitation programs. These solutions aim to make MSK care more convenient, accessible, and cost-effective for patients, while also improving outcomes and reducing the need for in-person visits.

Digital MSK has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to a rise in remote healthcare services. The use of digital tools for MSK care is particularly relevant given the high prevalence of MSK conditions, which affect millions of people around the world and can have a significant impact on quality of life and healthcare costs.

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Digital MSK is commonly referred to as digital physical therapy, so what is DPT?

Digital physical therapy refers to the use of technology and digital tools to provide physical therapy services remotely, without requiring in-person visits to a physical therapy clinic or office. Digital physical therapy solutions can include telehealth consultations, remote monitoring of patient symptoms and progress, and digital platforms for self-assessment and self-management.

Digital physical therapy solutions may use a variety of technologies, such as video conferencing, mobile apps, wearable devices, and virtual reality. These tools enable physical therapists to provide personalized treatment plans and exercises, monitor patient progress, and offer support and guidance to patients remotely.

Digital physical therapy has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its convenience, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. It also allows physical therapists to reach a broader patient population and provide more frequent and consistent care. However, it's important to note that digital physical therapy may not be appropriate for all patients or conditions, and in-person physical therapy may still be necessary for some patients.

What is driving the Digital MSK market?

The digital MSK market worldwide is growing rapidly, driven by factors such as the high prevalence of MSK conditions, the increasing adoption of digital health solutions, and the need for more accessible and cost-effective MSK care. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global digital MSK market size was valued at USD 2.98 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.4% from 2021 to 2028.

The market is expected to be driven by a range of digital MSK solutions, including telemedicine, remote monitoring, digital platforms for self-management, and virtual rehabilitation programs. These solutions are being adopted by healthcare providers, employers, and insurers to provide more convenient, efficient, and accessible MSK care to patients.

North America is currently the largest market for digital MSK solutions, with a high prevalence of MSK conditions and a strong healthcare IT infrastructure. However, the market is also expected to grow rapidly in other regions, such as Europe and Asia-Pacific, as digital health solutions become more widely adopted.

Source: https://www.healthcare.digital/single-post/digital-msk-poised-for-growth-as-one-of-healthtech-s-evolving-new-stars

Investment trends in the Digital Musculoskeletal (MSK) market

Investment trends in the digital musculoskeletal (MSK) sector have been robust in recent years, reflecting the growing recognition of the importance of MSK care and the potential of digital solutions to improve outcomes.

Increased Funding: Digital MSK companies have seen significant funding rounds as investors recognize the market potential. Funding has come from venture capital firms, private equity investors, and strategic partnerships. This influx of capital has enabled companies to develop and scale their technologies, expand their reach, and invest in research and development.
Telehealth and Remote Care Solutions: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth and remote care solutions, including in the MSK space. Investors showed interest in companies offering virtual physical therapy, remote monitoring, and telemedicine services, as these solutions addressed the challenges of access to care and enabled patients to receive treatment from the comfort of their homes.
Digital Therapeutics: Digital therapeutics, including evidence-based software programs for MSK conditions, have garnered attention and investment. These solutions aim to provide clinically validated interventions through digital platforms, combining elements such as exercise programs, education, behavioural therapy, and monitoring to improve MSK outcomes.
Wearable Technology: Wearable devices and sensors designed for MSK monitoring, posture correction, and movement analysis have attracted investor interest. These technologies offer the potential for remote monitoring, objective data collection, and personalised interventions.
Remote Rehabilitation and Home-based Care: Solutions that facilitate remote rehabilitation and deliver MSK care in a home-based setting have gained traction. Investors have recognised the potential of platforms that provide virtual physical therapy, remote exercise guidance, and monitoring to improve convenience, adherence, and outcomes.
Partnerships and Collaborations: Digital MSK companies have sought collaborations with healthcare providers, insurers, and employers to expand their reach and demonstrate value. Investors have shown interest in companies that have established strategic partnerships to enhance their offerings and demonstrate scalability.

Investment trends in the Digital Musculoskeletal (MSK) landscape

The digital musculoskeletal (MSK) investment landscape is rapidly evolving, with a growing number of investors looking to get involved in this promising space.

Here are some of the investment trends that are emerging in the digital MSK market:

Focus on early-stage companies: The digital MSK market is still in its early stages of development, and there is a lot of opportunity for early-stage companies to make a significant impact. As a result, investors are increasingly focusing on early-stage digital MSK companies with the potential to disrupt the traditional healthcare model.
Investments in virtual care: Virtual care is one of the most promising areas of the digital MSK market. This is because virtual care can provide patients with convenient and affordable access to care, which is especially important for people with musculoskeletal conditions who may have difficulty traveling to traditional healthcare settings. As a result, investors are increasingly investing in companies that are developing virtual care solutions for MSK conditions.
Investments in data-driven solutions: Data-driven solutions are another key area of investment in the digital MSK market. This is because data can be used to improve the effectiveness of MSK care by providing insights into patient outcomes and treatment patterns. As a result, investors are increasingly investing in companies that are developing data-driven solutions for MSK conditions.
Investments in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML): AI and ML are rapidly emerging as two of the most promising technologies for the digital MSK market. This is because AI and ML can be used to develop personalized care plans, automate tasks, and improve the accuracy of diagnoses. As a result, investors are increasingly investing in companies that are developing AI and ML solutions for MSK conditions.

Overall, the digital MSK investment landscape is very dynamic, and there are a number of exciting trends emerging. As the market continues to grow, investors are likely to continue to focus on early-stage companies, virtual care solutions, data-driven solutions, and AI and ML solutions.

Future innovation in the digital musculoskeletal (MSK) market

The digital musculoskeletal (MSK) market is rapidly evolving, and there are a number of exciting innovations emerging. Here are some of the future innovations that are likely to have a significant impact on the digital MSK market:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning: AI and machine learning have the potential to revolutionise MSK care. Advanced algorithms can analyze large datasets, assist with diagnostics, personalise treatment plans, and provide predictive analytics. AI-powered tools may help in automating certain aspects of MSK care, improving accuracy, and enabling more precise interventions.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): VR and AR technologies offer immersive experiences and can be leveraged for pain management, rehabilitation, and patient education in the MSK space. These technologies have the potential to enhance engagement, simulate real-world scenarios for therapy, and provide interactive guidance during exercises.
Wearable Devices and Sensors: Continued advancements in wearable devices and sensors will likely play a significant role in the future of digital MSK care. These devices can provide real-time data on movement, posture, activity levels, and biometrics, enabling remote monitoring, personalized interventions, and objective assessment of progress.
Telehealth and Remote Care Solutions: The adoption of telehealth and remote care solutions has accelerated, and this trend is expected to continue. Integrated platforms that facilitate virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and guidance for MSK conditions will become more sophisticated, enabling patients to access care from anywhere and improving convenience and adherence.
Digital Therapeutics and Gamification: Digital therapeutics, including software-based interventions, will continue to evolve, offering evidence-based treatment options for MSK conditions. Gamification techniques, such as incorporating game-like elements into therapy programs, can enhance engagement, motivation, and adherence to rehabilitation exercises and self-care routines.
Big Data and Predictive Analytics: The collection and analysis of big data related to MSK care can offer insights into treatment outcomes, patient behavior, and risk factors. Predictive analytics can help identify individuals at risk of developing MSK conditions, optimise treatment plans, and improve overall population health management.
Personalised Medicine and Precision Care: With advances in genomics and biomarker research, the future of MSK care may involve personalized medicine and precision care approaches. Genetic profiling, biomarker analysis, and data-driven algorithms can help tailor interventions to an individual's specific needs and predict treatment responses.
Remote Rehabilitation and Home-Based Care: The ability to deliver effective rehabilitation and MSK care remotely will likely continue to improve. Advanced technologies, remote monitoring capabilities, and integrated platforms will enable individuals to receive high-quality care in their homes, enhancing convenience, access, and long-term adherence to treatment plans.

These potential areas of future innovation in the digital MSK market indicate the growing potential for technology to transform MSK care and improve patient outcomes.

However, it's important to note that actual developments and breakthroughs will depend on ongoing research, technological advancements, regulatory considerations, and market dynamics.