Back pain and fibromyalgia dominate DWP's top ten musculoskeletal claims

The Department for Work and Pensions identified the ten most common musculoskeletal and connective tissue conditions among Universal Credit claimants. The list was released in response to a parliamentary question regarding Work Capability Assessment decisions. Universal Credit is a means-tested benefit for working-age individuals with low income, those out of work, or those unable to work due to health issues.

Claimants with severe health conditions or terminal illnesses receive an additional payment on top of their standard allowance. Those classified with Limited Capability for Work and Work-Related Activity, or LCWRA, get an extra £429.80 per month. They are not required to look for work. Those with less severe conditions, classified as Limited Capability for Work, receive an extra £217.26 per month and may be expected to prepare for work.

The base monthly allowance for a single person under 25 is £338.58. For a single person over 25, the amount is £424.90. A couple where both partners are under 25 receives a combined monthly total of £528.34. Couples where both partners are over 25 receive £666.97 per month together.

The data covers Work Capability Assessment decisions for non-ESA transition claimants from January 2022 to February 2026. Musculoskeletal problems topped the list with 546,100 recorded decisions. Back problems accounted for 99,200 decisions, while back pain was recorded in 91,200 cases. Fibromyalgia appeared in 80,300 decisions.

Hand problems were recorded in 52,400 cases. Knee problems accounted for 51,400 decisions, and leg problems for 46,600. Shoulder problems appeared in 43,100 cases. Osteoarthritis was recorded in 31,400 decisions, and arm problems in 30,100 cases.

Conservative MP Neil O’Brien asked Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Pat McFadden for these figures. O’Brien referenced Figure 9 of the Department’s publication on Universal Credit Work Capability Assessment statistics from April 2019 to March 2026. He also cited a previous freedom of information request response.

Sir Stephen Timms, Minister of State for Social Security and Disability, provided the table in his written answer. He explained that medical conditions are based on evidence recorded during the assessment. An LCWRA recommendation is established when a claimant meets any one of the relevant qualifying descriptors. These descriptors are applied on a met or not met basis. Timms noted that claimants often have complex health issues and can be recorded with multiple conditions. Primary conditions are not identified in the data.