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Perhaps you have complained at one time or other about being sick of work. But can work make you sick?
You may be suffering from a workplace injury or you may be interested in preventing an injury from occurring in the future. Whether you are an employee or an employer, Wellness Professionals can be your partner in health.
Work and Musculoskeletal System Health
Injuries to muscles, tendons, and nerves that are caused or made worse by the work environment are work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). They are also referred to as cumulative trauma disorders (CTD), repetitive strain injury (RSI), repetitive motion injury (RMI), soft tissue disorders, overuse syndrome, and occupational cervicobrachial disorders.
Across all industries and occupations, the number-one cause of work-related disability in the U.S. is WMSDs. Occupational health researchers estimate that approximately 70 million Americans of all stages of life are affected.
A range of risk factors leads to WMSDs, including awkward postures and movements, force of movements, repetitive movements, pace of work, vibration, and temperature. These factors are also influenced by weight of the objects being handled, speed of work (e.g. workplaces with conveyor belts), or the way in which a workstation is equipped or laid out. The level of risk is directly related to exposure to the conditions - how long, how often, and the level of exposure. WMSDs do not typically develop as a result of a single injury or event, but develop gradually, with repeated trauma.
Injuries that fall under the umbrella of WMSDs include:
Workers with WMSDs feel symptoms like pain, numbness, discomfort, tingling, restricted movement, and weakness. These injuries cause pain and suffering that ranges from mild discomfort to periodic symptoms to disability.
When workers begin to experience discomfort, they may make modifications to try to relieve the uncomfortable situation. For example, they may wear splints or supports, may need to stop to massage muscles and joints or to shake their limbs, they may complain of pain or fatigue, and/or they may avoid certain tasks or ask to be reassigned.
These disorders affect all aspects of a worker's life, including physical and mental health and sometimes even livelihood. They also result in significant direct and indirect costs for employers. Musculoskeletal disorders make up a high percentage of lost-time claims, lost-time claim costs, and lost-time days.
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