Date: {{$ActivityAssignDate}}

Dear Dr. {{ $doctorName }},

Subject: Participation in study entitled: AsseSsment of Place and Use of NutraceutIcals in the Management of Musculoskeletal DisordeRs by Indian HEalthcare Professionals (ASPIRE Study)

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a group of conditions that affect the muscles, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues in the body. These disorders can range from minor sprains and strains to severe conditions that impair mobility and quality of life. The prevalence of MSDs is high, making them one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common degenerative joint diseases, characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, which leads to pain, stiffness, and swelling. It often affects weight bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spineError! Reference source not found.. Prevalence of osteoarthritis in India is 22-39%.

Tendinopathy represents a spectrum of tendon pathology, associated with chronic tendon pain and impaired physical function, and as a disease entity is responsible for 30-45% of all musculoskeletal pathologies requiring medical treatment.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used for the management of OA and tendinopathy but emerging evidence restricts the use of NSAIDs due to associated gastrointestinal and cardiovascular adverse effects.

Healthcare professionals in India use wide range of nutritional supplements particularly collagen preparations in the management of musculoskeletal disorders. Despite wide use of these collagen preparations there are many controversies about their beneficial effects due to inconsistent reports from clinical trials. This real-world study will help to assess the use of nutritional supplements and collagen preparations in the management of musculoskeletal disorders.

If you agree to participate, you will be required to respond to questions of the enclosed questionnaire. We trust you and we are partners in promoting safe and effective drug therapy. In that spirit we hope you will consent to participate in this study. If you do, please sign and return the enclosed reply along with your visiting card for accuracy of records.