A jump that changed everything

On a grey and windy day in Devon, Conservative MP David Reed jumped from a plane at fifteen thousand feet. Strong winds caught his parachute and slammed him into an aircraft hangar.

Misdiagnosed at A and E

After the October two thousand twenty accident, doctors told Reed he had a severe sprain. Six months later, an MRI scan revealed his ankle had been broken the entire time.

“My ankle had been broken the entire time. The fracture had been missed at A&E.”

Six years of lasting damage

Reed, a former Royal Marine and Team GB Wingsuit Skydiving Squad member, says the misdiagnosis has permanently altered his life. He now must consider pain costs before any physical activity.

“Six years ago, I was a soldier who could run for miles, jump out of aircraft, and represent my country in sports.”

A national health challenge

Reed told the House of Commons on Tuesday that almost one in five adults in England reported a long-term musculoskeletal condition in two thousand twenty-four, according to health minister James Frith.

Calling for better NHS access

Reed asked the government to improve early diagnosis and timely access to rehabilitation for musculoskeletal conditions. He also pressed for enhanced services for veterans, noting MSK is a major reason for medical discharge.

“My experience has left me deeply frustrated with parts of the NHS, particularly the difficulties accessing timely diagnosis and treatment.”

Government backs MSK programme

Health minister James Frith said the MSK Community Delivery Programme, backed by six million pounds for two thousand twenty-six to twenty-seven, aims to cut waiting times.

“Every delay can mean more pain, less mobility, and a greater risk that somebody leaves work or loses independence.”