Historical bones used to create computer models for future treatments

Bones from historical collections are being used by researchers to create computer models that could play a role in treating chronic back pain in future.

Scientists from the Universities of Leeds and Bristol are analysing the spines of skeletons from museums and anatomy collections in a government-backed study, in order to generate computed tomography models illustrating how bones can develop in different ways.

This information is designed to supplement the data drawn from bodies donated to medical science, which tends to be limited in quantity as well as being mostly drawn from older age groups.

Using these computer models, scientists and clinicians will be able to evaluate the efficacy of new surgical and medical device options, as well as gauging which individual patients are most likely to benefit from different treatments.

David Willetts, the UK minister for universities and science, said: "This investment could significantly improve quality of life for millions of people around the world, so it's fantastic that the research is being carried out in the UK."

According to NHS data, chronic back pain is currently the second most common cause of long-term disability in England.