Common Work-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries

What Are Musculoskeletal Disorders?

Musculoskeletal disorders include a group of conditions that involve the nerves, tendons, muscles, and supporting structures such as intervertebral discs. They represent a wide range of disorders, which can differ in severity from mild periodic symptoms to severe chronic and debilitating conditions. Examples are tension neck syndrome, and low back pain/strain.

What Are Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSD)?

Work Related Musculoskeletal Disorders are musculoskeletal disorders caused or made worse by the work environment. WMSDs can cause severe and debilitating symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling; reduced worker productivity; lost time from work; temporary or permanent disability; inability to perform job tasks; and an increase in workers compensation costs.

What Are the Risk Factors for WMSDs?

Repetitive, forceful, or prolonged exertions, frequent heavy lifting, pushing, pulling, or carrying of heavy objects; prolonged awkward postures; and vibration contribute to WMSDs. The level of risk depends on how long a worker is exposed to these conditions, how often they are exposed, and the level of exposure.

How Common Are MSDs?

Musculoskeletal disorders of any cause are among the most prevalent health problems, affecting 7% of the population and accounting for 14% of physician visits and 19% of hospital stays.