Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders, characterised by issues with muscles, bones and joints, have significant implications for workplace health and productivity. These conditions – which include back and neck pain, arthritis, and fibromyalgia – can lead to pain and limitations in mobility, and can impact an individual's ability to perform everyday activities.

While often not life-threatening, MSK disorders considerably impair the quality of life for many adults, including a large segment of the workforce.

‍MSK disorders are the leading cause of pain and disability in England.‍

In the workplace, MSK disorders often develop over time due to longer periods spent without movement. ,constrained body positions, or the strain placed on small body parts, such as the hand or wrist. The shift to hybrid and flexible working models has further exacerbated MSK health problems, with injuries occurring from improper home office setups.

‍Current Strategies and Challenges

Employers have recognised the significance of MSK health, yet many initiatives remain fragmented and reactive. Common interventions include:

Ergonomic assessments
Movement initiatives
On-site physiotherapy

While this is a step in the right direction, these efforts are often isolated, and lack a cohesive strategy that integrates MSK health into broader wellbeing programs.

MSK is often the highest use of Occupational Health services.

One major issue is the perception of MSK health within organisations. While some employees and employers prioritise MSK health as an integral component of overall wellbeing, others view it as unnecessary until they experience discomfort or injury. This inconsistency in perception, coupled with a reactive rather than proactive approach to MSK health, can hinder the implementation and effectiveness of MSK health initiatives.

An estimated 473,000 workers suffered from work-related MSK disorders, resulting in 6.6 million working days lost each year

The varied MSK health solutions available in the market can overwhelm organisations trying to select the most suitable options.

Often, providers are procured separately – leading to siloed solutions that are not integrated into a comprehensive care pathway. This disjointed and inefficient approach to workplace MSK health management increases barriers to employees accessing the care they need

The Impact of MSK in the Workplace

MSK disorders affect 18.5% of the UK population – that’s over 20.2 million people.

MSK disorders are one of the primary reasons for sick-leave , with 1 in 8 of the working-age population reporting an MSK-related issue as their reason for workplace absence. In 2022/23, of all working days lost due to work-related MSK disorders, back pain alone accounted for 44% of these, with an average of 14.9 days lost per absence. It is clear that MSK pain has a substantial impact on both individuals and organisations.

What is the solution?

Organisations need to move beyond the current fragmented and reactive approach.

“Existing approaches to MSK health often lack strategic coherence and holistic integration, instead appearing fragmented and piecemeal.” - Focus Group Participant

Integrating MSK health into a unified wellbeing strategy that encompasses prevention, education, and proactive management is crucial. This includes teaching employees proper exercise techniques and postural improvements to prevent MSK issues.

We cannot understate the importance of collaboration between different departments such as human resources and occupational health for effective MSK health management. Additionally, working with aligned providers to integrate solutions into a comprehensive care pathway will enhance the overall effectiveness of MSK initiatives.

Employee wellness champions should also work to actively increase awareness about the importance of MSK health and its connection to overall wellbeing. Regular education and training should be provided to employees to discuss the links MSK health has to mental and emotional wellbeing, and demonstrate the ways in which they can best protect their physical and mental health.

Addressing these challenges with a strategic and holistic approach can significantly improve MSK health management, and enhance employee wellbeing and productivity across the workforce.

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