29 Nov How Musculoskeletal Disorders Can Affect the Workplace

One in two individuals is estimated to suffer from a bone or joint disorder. This is comparable to the number of people living with lung or heart conditions. Musculoskeletal disorders can impact every aspect of a person’s life and make everyday tasks more challenging, including workplace tasks.

What Are Musculoskeletal Disorders?

Musculoskeletal disorders are conditions, diseases, or injuries that affect any part of the bones, joints, and muscles. Some common musculoskeletal conditions include but are not limited to

• Bone fractures
• Muscles strains
• Ligament Pain or sprains
• Tendinitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Back, neck, or other joint pains
• Diseases such as gout, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis

How do Musculoskeletal Disorders Happen?

High-force activities, posture, or repetition cause most musculoskeletal disorders.

• High-force injuries are often caused by lifting, carrying, lowering objects, pushing, pulling, or other activities requiring a forceful grip or force.
• Posture-related injuries can occur with twisting, bending, or holding a position for an extended period.
• Repetitive injuries are caused by repetitive motion that can cause muscle fatigue, tissue damage, pain, and discomfort.

Musculoskeletal Disorders and the Workplace?

Musculoskeletal disorders can be challenging to manage in the workplace. Musculoskeletal disorders can cause employees to be absent from work or work in a limited capacity, reducing overall productivity. Musculoskeletal conditions can also be costly for both the employer and the employee. It is estimated that 30% of workers’ compensation costs come from workplace injuries.

There are many things an employer can do to help prevent their employees from experiencing a musculoskeletal disorder. Employers can provide their employees with the proper tools and equipment necessary to facilitate proper body mechanics. Employers can also offer training for their employees to ensure they are engaging in safe practices while on the job. Providing proper breaks and rest is also important to prevent musculoskeletal injuries. 

As an employee, if you are experiencing a musculoskeletal problem, it is important to discuss your injuries and concerns with your employer so that accommodations can be made, and your work productivity will not suffer.

If you are suffering from any of these musculoskeletal disorders, we offer shockwave therapy for musculoskeletal disorders at our office. Shockwave therapy utilizes acoustic waves to help accelerate the body’s natural healing process. This treatment stimulates improved circulation and promotes the regeneration and reparative processes of the bones, tendons, and other soft tissues. To make an appointment, click here or call us at our office at (817) 961-9775.