HEALTH researchers at the University of York have been awarded more than £600,000 to examine bone and joint problems that affect thousands across the country.
The Department of Health Sciences has received £611,400 to look at the process of accurately diagnosing and managing such conditions.
Studies have revealed that every year 15 per cent of the patients who consult their GP are there because they have problems with their bones or joints.
Researchers will investigate whether the latest medical resonance imaging (MRI) techonology can arm doctors with better information.
The Medical Research Council is funding the four-year trial to assess objectively whether patients should have an MRI scan or be referred directly to an orthopaedic surgeon.
The study will also give GPs information about the most appropriate use of MRI and how to interpret findings.
Five hundred patients will be recruited from 250 general practices in North Yorkshire, North Wales and North East Scotland, and their progress monitored over 24 months.
Professor Ian Russell, of the Department of Health Sciences, said: "This is a major opportunity to collect rigorous evidence on the role of MRI in primary care.
"It will also help to improve communications and collaboration between health care professionals."
Updated: 11:56 Tuesday, August 27, 2002
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article