Primary Care Show 2026

People living with musculoskeletal conditions are disproportionately affected by overweight and obesity, yet many primary care clinicians report limited time, confidence and clarity about how to address this sensitively within routine MSK consultations. This practical session responds directly to clinician feedback by focusing on what to consider in real‑world practice. Using a whole‑person, biopsychosocial approach aligned with NICE guidance and the 5As framework, the session will explore how to recognise and reduce weight stigma, use non‑stigmatising language, and initiate brief, patient‑led conversations about weight or health behaviours where appropriate. Delegates will consider how to support pain, function and participation regardless of BMI, and how to signpost effectively to relevant resources within integrated care systems. Participants will leave with clear, actionable strategies, greater confidence in everyday consultations, and one practical change they can apply immediately to improve patient experience and outcomes.

Learning Outcomes:

• Apply a whole‑person, biopsychosocial understanding of overweight and obesity to MSK care
• Recognise and reduce weight stigma and bias in MSK care
• Demonstrate non‑stigmatising, patient‑centred language in MSK consultations
• Initiate brief, appropriate conversations about weight or health behaviours within an MSK consultation
• Support people with osteoarthritis and MSK conditions regardless of BMI
• Identify and appropriately signpost to integrated care system resources that support better MSK outcomes
• Commit to a specific, practical change in MSK clinical practice