The real cost of musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace

The way in which our working environment relates to our own health is something which many people do not consider, but it can play a huge role in our own mental and physical wellbeing. Two of the most common types of work related disorders are musculoskeletal (MSDs) and Repetitive Stress (RSDs), which affect many people in the UK workplace.

Musculoskeletal disorders have a substantial affect and cost on UK business and society, effecting more than 1 million people each year. According to HSE, this translates into 11.6 million lost working days each year. Each affected person took on average 20.5 days off with their MSD, which equates to an annual loss of 0.5 days per worker in the UK alone.

There are a range of physical conditions which fit within the MSD bracket. These include minor neck, back and upper body aches and pains, but also much more serious conditions which require intensive treatment. These types of disorders are usually caused by repetitive stress on a particular area of the body, which over time causes injury. MSDs can also be caused by bad working conditions and poor ergonomics within the place of work.

The best way to deal with these potential issues is to have preventative measures in place to minimize the risk of MSDs within the workplace. Acknowledging potential “zones” which could play a part in these disorders is essential, but it is not always possible to eradicate the risk entirely. In these circumstances it is critical to have a strategy in place to help employees with these conditions to remain in an active role within the workplace, or if this is not possible, provide them with a rehabilitation programme enabling them to return to work gradually and safely. This will substantially cut long-term absence and also increase efficiency and work productivity.