It’s easy to overlook the risks associated with musculoskeletal health disorders. We tend to take movement in our back, neck, arms and legs for granted – until an injury demonstrates just how vital they are. But Musculoskeletal disorders (or MSK as we’ll refer to them), can have a significant impact on an organisation’s productivity.
According to the NHS, over 30 million working days are lost due to MSK conditions every year in the UK and they account for up to 30% of GP consultations in England. What’s more, MSK conditions significantly limit mobility and dexterity, leading to early retirement from work, lower levels of wellbeing and reduced ability to participate in society.
That’s why we think greater awareness of MSK conditions and how to protect MSK health is a valuable strategy as part of a fit and healthy workforce.
What are musculoskeletal disorders?
Musculoskeletal disorders are injuries or disorders that affect the musculoskeletal system of the body which is responsible for human movement. Over 20 million people in the UK, almost one third of the population, have a MSK condition such as arthritis or back pain. The structures affected can include bones, joints, tendons, muscles, nerves and connective tissue. This can result in conditions of the back, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, hips, legs and feet.
Why good musculoskeletal health matters at work
We are experiencing a growth in an ageing workforce in line with an ageing society. Today, there are 4.2 million more workers aged 50 and over in the UK than there were in 2000 and MSK conditions are the most prevalent health issue affecting people aged 50 to 64. According to UK Government data, 21% of this age range are experiencing MSK conditions, compared to 17% for cardiovascular conditions.
According to Arthritis Research UK only 59.4% of people of working age with an MSK condition are in work – meaning around 40% of older workers with an MSK condition who could be working aren’t. This shows the impact that better awareness of MSK disorders could have, especially if this helps prevent injuries. But MSK conditions don’t only impact older workers. Younger people are also affected, often during their peak income earning years.
Symptoms and signs
Symptoms can include aches and pain, joint stiffness, limited movement, muscle weakness, reduced flexibility and disability which affect quality of life and independence. This can lead to an inability to undertake daily activities e.g. walking, dressing and household chores. From an employment perspective, an MSK disorder can result in an inability to work or undertake certain aspects of the job role.
Causes of musculoskeletal disorders and workplace risks
Needless to say, the workplace can present a number of challenges to good musculoskeletal health, particularly in more physical and manual environments. Risks are commonplace and it’s a responsibility of the employer to manage those risks. We have included a link to the HSE guide to musculoskeletal disorders at the end of this article. In summary, the HSE identify the following risks:
- Manual handling – lifting heavy or bulky loads
- Repetitive work and awkward postures – particularly using the same hand or arm action
- Exposure to vibration – working with power tools for extended periods
- Driving heavy vehicles, long-distance driving or driving over rough ground
But the risks aren’t all about manual and physical work, there are also health risks of working with display screen equipment such as PCs, laptops, tablets and smartphones. And other indirect factors can contribute too – such as the challenges faced by disabled workers, pregnant women and the effects and risks of working while physically tired.
Prevention and management
There are a number of ways to manage risk and prevent injury, including:
Communication: Make risk awareness a part of the workplace conversation. It might seem strange mentioning something that may not happen – but that’s the reason you’ll be doing it. The more we all think about how to prevent slips, trips and sprains the less likely they’ll happen.
Talk to your staff: Do they have the right equipment? What risks to MSK health have they spotted by doing the roles that can cause injury? Do they feel the right number of staff are there to prevent injury? They should feel free to speak up on health and safety without fear of criticism.
Look out for hot spots: Your sickness and absence data, injury book and records of accidents will enable you to spot any trends. What prevention and intervention measures can you take to minimise future incidents?
Provide workstation assessments: Don’t forget to include those working from home and ensure these are regularly reassessed upon changing circumstances.
Awareness in your staff and managers: Do your people know how to prevent injuries, and spot and manage symptoms of MSK disorders – especially in their own jobs? They may be unaware of the risk of carrying weights or feel that it’s OK to ‘have a go’ at lifting without asking for help. No one should feel intimidated by asking others to help.
Improved training: Employers can also provide training on safe work practices and the importance of regular exercise to maintain musculoskeletal health.
Create a culture of health, safety and wellbeing: When all of the above combine, you will be creating a culture that enable staff to feel confident in speaking up about their safety at work, as well as an organisation that becomes known for a compassionate, proactive and supportive approach to prevention.
In conclusion
MSK conditions are some of the most common to cause injury to workers and are particularly prevalent in older workers. Despite the risk to health and the impact on productivity, many people work unaware of the risks. We believe many of these are preventable with greater awareness and a strategy of making MSK conditions and their causes a part of the workplace conversation.
Get our guide
We have produced a new Cordell Health guide on musculoskeletal disorders. This is available to subscribers to our wellbeing service. If you are not signed up to this service and would like to find out more, please contact us on wellbeing@cordellhealth.co.uk
Further reading
Health and Safety Executive (HSE): Musculoskeletal disorders at work
