Interest has developed in biomarkers in body fluids, which are indicative of degradation of bone, cartilage and synovial tissue. These are currently being investigated in the clinical context in terms of diagnosis, prognosis and efficacy of treatment for rheumatoid and osteo-arthritis.
There is also interest in the use of such biomarkers in sports medicine and now occupational medicine. The cause of occupational lower limb musculoskeletal disorders may involve complex multifactorial issues.