What are Musculoskeletal Disorders?

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Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) refer to a range of injuries and conditions affecting bones, joints, ligaments, tendons and other tissues that support and connect the body's organs. 

Examples of MSDs include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, bursitis, herniated discs, and strains and sprains. MSDs are common in workplaces that require repetitive motions, forceful exertions, and awkward postures.

Employers have a legal obligation to protect their employees from MSDs by implementing measures that mitigate the risk of injury or harm.

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The Importance of Treating Musculoskeletal Disorders in a Timely Manner

Symptoms of MSDs typically include pain, discomfort, numbness or tingling, weakness, stiffness, swelling, and redness. 

MSDs often build up over time, and as such, they may go unnoticed until they have caused irreversible damage. MSDs are more common among workers in industries that require repetitive motions such as manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and agriculture. 

Common causes of MSDs include awkward postures, forceful exertions, repetitive motions, and improper lifting.

Preventing MSDs

Employers can prevent MSDs by implementing ergonomic solutions that ensure workers are comfortable and safe while carrying out their duties. 

Ergonomic solutions include modifying workstations to reduce awkward postures, adjusting heights and angles to minimize force exertion. 

It’s important to provide frequent breaks and stretches to reduce repetitive motions, and offer appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, elbow and knee pads, and back supports. 

Employers should also educate their workers on how to properly lift and carry heavy objects to avoid strains and sprains.

Early treatment and intervention can prevent MSDs from becoming worse and may even cure them. 

Employers should encourage their workers to report any discomfort or pain related to MSDs immediately and provide prompt first aid such as ice packs and heat therapy, as well as medical treatment such as physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and medication. 

Employers should also offer modified duties for workers with MSDs to prevent further injury and allow them time to recover.

MSDs can result in loss of productivity, increased absenteeism, decreased morale, and higher healthcare costs. Employers who implement effective preventative measures can save money in the long run through reduced workers' compensation claims, reduced sick days, and increased productivity. 

Employers should regularly assess their workplaces for MSD hazards and implement corrective measures as necessary.

Treatment for MSDs usually relates to managing the severity of the condition and the type of the MSD. Some common treatments include:

• Physical therapies, including stretching and range-of-motion exercises. 
• Medications to mitigate and manage pain and improve joint flexibility. 
• Surgical procedures (in cases where treatments are ineffective). 
• Lifestyle changes (losing weight, taking breaks, eating healthy).

Causes and Symptoms of MSDs

MSDs are often caused by factors related to the workplace, including uncomfortable postures, repetitive motions, and excessive force. 

These factors can lead to repetitive strain injuries, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Other factors that can contribute to MSDs include poor ergonomics, vibration, and exposure to cold temperatures.

Employers have a legal and ethical responsibility to ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of their workers. This includes taking steps to prevent MSDs in the workplace. Failure to do so can result in legal consequences and a loss of company reputation.

Classifying MSDs

MSDs are classified based on the location of the affected body part. Some common types include:

1. Osteoarthritis: This is the most prevalent type of arthritis, which affects the cartilage in the joints and causes pain, stiffness, and swelling.

2. Back pain: This is a widespread form of MSD, and it can happen in different parts of the back, including the neck, lower back, and upper back.

3. Osteoporosis: Weak bones that are more susceptible to fractures due to loss of bone density and calcium. 

4. Tendinitis: This occurs when tendons become inflamed due to overuse or injury.

Use Protex AI to Create a Positive Safety Culture 

Protex AI allows safety teams to build their own safety rules to determine the level of risk and make sure that employees are aware of best safety practices. 

Protex AI makes it easy for EHS teams to identify if employees are following best practices, especially those that are engaged with high-risk activities, such as manual lifting.