What are Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)?

Disorders of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, joints, cartilage, and spinal discs are known as musculoskeletal disorders. You may know these disorders by other names:

Tendonitis Carpet Layers’ Knee Shoulder Strain
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Trigger Finger Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Epicondylitis (tennis elbow) Ulnar Neuropathy
Low Back Pain Herniated Spinal Disc Raynaud’s Syndrome

These disorders occur when you have overused or strained muscles. You can develop MSDs when activities you perform include reaching, bending, lifting heavy objects, using excessive force, working in awkward postures over long periods of time, working with tools that don’t fit you, performing repetitive motions or when a body part presses against a hard or sharp surface. MSDs can occur whether you are at work or somewhere else.

The good news is that MSDs are preventable and reversible in the early stages! All you need is an understanding of MSDs, how to prevent them, and a commitment to making changes. Being receptive to making changes is critical and lays the groundwork for correcting unsafe conditions and work behaviors. Correcting workstation layouts, work habits, job design, and taking good care of your body will reduce the risk of injury while increasing your comfort and productivity. If you are experiencing discomfort, improve your technique. If discomfort continues and affects your ability to do daily tasks, seek medical attention.