What are Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)?
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) include a wide range of conditions affecting the muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage and discs of the spine. These can result from injuries or chronic disorders related to work activities. Examples of MSBs include:
- Sprains, strains and tears
MSDs are often associated with high costs to employers due to absenteeism, lost productivity, increased health care costs, and workers’ compensation claims. They can be more serious than the average non-fatal injury or illness. Addressing them is therefore vital to both employee well-being and organizational success.
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) specifically arise from work conditions.
Some of the factors that contribute to WMSD:
- Regular lifting of heavy objects
- Daily exposure to whole body vibrations
- Repetitive general work
- Chronic neck flexion position
- Running dynamic tasks
- Maintained static postures
These conditions can lead to strain, discomfort and long-term disability if not treated properly. So, let’s talk about how ergonomics can help!
Ergonomics: Designing for People
Ergonomics, also known as human factors engineering, focuses on creating environments, products and systems that fit and adapt to people. Here’s what you need to know:
- Understanding human needs and limitations: Ergonomics takes into account factors such as body size, strength, cognitive abilities, sensory perception (sight and hearing) and psychological aspects. It aims to design workplaces, furniture and equipment that enhance productivity while minimizing discomfort and the risk of injury.
- Workspace design: Proper arrangement of items such as desks, chairs, monitors, keyboards and lighting is essential. Ergonomics ensure that these components fit the user’s needs, promoting comfort and efficiency.
- Physical wellness: An emphasis on improved posture, adjustable furniture, and movement helps combat physical problems like repetitive strain injuries, back pain, and eye strain—common in sedentary workplaces.
- Interdisciplinary approach: Ergonomics draws from various scientific fields, such as anthropometrics (body sizes and shapes), biomechanics (muscles and movement), environmental physics (noise, light, temperature) and psychology (dexterity, learning, errors).
Types of Ergonomics
- Natural Ergonomics: Focuses on body mechanics, posture and physical workload.
- Cognitive Ergonomics: It deals with mental workload, decision making and information processing.
- Organizational Ergonomics: It takes into account organizational structures, communication and teamwork.
- Environmental Ergonomics: It deals with the natural environment (lighting, noise, temperature).
- Corrective Ergonomics: It modifies existing systems to reduce inconvenience and risk.
- Proactive Ergonomics: Proactively prevents problems through design.
- Microergonomics: Examines small-scale interactions (eg design of hand tools).
- Macro ergonomics: Focuses on large-scale systems (eg entire work processes).
Key findings regarding the absence of MSK
Musculoskeletal absenteeism (MSK) is a critical issue in various workplaces, significantly affecting productivity, worker well-being and healthcare costs. Research in this area has focused on the prevalence, causes, and potential interventions to reduce absenteeism due to MSK disorders. Additionally, ergonomic (ergo) practices have been examined as vital strategies to mitigate these issues.
Research findings include:
- Prevalence: MSK disorders are among the leading causes of absence from the workplace. Studies show that conditions such as back pain, arthritis and repetitive strain injuries can lead to significant lost time at work.
- Reasons: Several factors contribute to the absence of MSK, including:
- Physical demands of the job, such as lifting heavy objects or prolonged sitting.
- Poor ergonomics in the workplace, leading to poor posture and strain.
- Psychological factors, such as stress and job dissatisfaction, which can worsen physical symptoms.
- Demographics: Certain demographics, including older workers and those in physically demanding roles, tend to experience higher levels of MSK-related absenteeism. Gender differences also emerge, with women more often reporting certain MSK disorders.
Role of Ergonomics
- Ergonomic interventions: Implementing ergonomic interventions in the workplace has been shown to reduce the incidence of MSK disorders. These interventions may include:
- Designing workplaces to promote neutral postures and reduce repetitive motions.
- Providing adjustable furniture and tools to meet different needs of workers.
- Training workers in proper body mechanics and safe lifting techniques.
- Effectiveness of Ergo solutions: Research has shown that workplaces that adopt ergonomic practices report lower levels of absenteeism. For example:
- One study found that ergonomic considerations and modifications led to a significant reduction in reported back pain and subsequent absenteeism.
- Companies that invested in ergonomic training and equipment often saw a return on investment through reduced workers’ compensation claims and improved productivity.
- Long-term benefits: Beyond immediate reductions in absenteeism, ergonomic interventions contribute to long-term employee health and retention. Promoting a healthy work environment can enhance job satisfaction and performance, ultimately benefiting organizational culture.
Future Directions for Research
- Longitudinal studies: More longitudinal studies are needed to assess the long-term impact of ergonomic interventions on MSK absence.
- Technology integration: The role of technology, such as wearable devices and ergonomic software, in the prevention of MSK disorders requires further investigation.
- Subjective versus objective metrics: Research should explore the relationship between self-reported absenteeism and objective measures of health and productivity to better understand the impact of MSK issues.
- Diversity and inclusion: Understanding how different populations are affected by MSK issues and ergonomic practices could lead to more tailored interventions that consider gender, age, and cultural differences.
Conclusion
Research on the absence of MSK highlights the significant costs associated with musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace and highlights the importance of ergonomic practices to mitigate these problems. Implementing effective ergonomic interventions can lead to substantial improvements in worker health, productivity and morale. As the workforce continues to evolve, continued research will be necessary to identify best practices and ensure healthy working conditions for all.
Remember, ergonomics isn’t just about office chairs – it’s about optimizing our everyday experiences. So whether you’re a designer, business owner, or someone looking to improve their environment, understanding ergonomics can lead to a healthier, more productive life!
(1) Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders & Ergonomics. https://www.cdc.gov/workplacehealthpromotion/health-strategies/musculoskeletal-disorders/index.html.
(2) Work-related musculoskeletal injuries and prevention. https://www.physio-pedia.com/Work-Related_Musculoskeletal_Injuries_and_Prevention.
(3) Musculoskeletal disorders – HSE Staff – HseLanD. https://healthservice.hse.ie/staff/health-and-safety/musculoskeletal-disorders/.
(4) What is Ergonomics? Types of Ergonomics and Examples. https://www.hseblog.com/what-is-ergonomics/.
(5) Office Ergonomics: Your Guide – Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/office-ergonomics/art-20046169.
