A Musculoskeletal Disorder is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a condition affecting a person's locomotive system, comprising of joints, muscles, bones, and related tissues such as ligaments and tendons. Musculoskeletal disorders affects one's mobility, dexterity, and flexibility.

The workplace accounts for 30% of injuries related to Musculoskeletal Disorders.


The most common musculoskeletal disorders that can occur from workplace injury includes;

Degenerative disc disease
muscle or tendon strain
Rotator cuff tendonitis
Ligament sprain
Tension neck syndrome
Herniated disc
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Epicondylitis
Tendonitis


Reducing the Risk of Musculoskeletal Disorders in the Workplace

1. Identifying Causes

People who work in places where heavy lifting is involved are susceptible to MSD. Muscle sprain can occur when objects to be lifted weighs disproportionately more than the person lifting.

We advise that employers provide alternative means of lifting such as employing equipment like, wheeled vehicles, dollies, and trollies, to make lifting easier. The best person to identify causes of work related musculoskeletal disorders, is a trained Physiotherapist in ergonomics. Our trained experts at St. Joseph's physiotherapy clinic perform a total evaluation to ascertain the cause, effects, and proffer solutions to individual conditions.

2. Creating An Active Environment

Workplace exercise is not common in Nigeria, but we recommend that training and exercise sessions be introduced in workplaces at least 3 times a week to prevent and reduce musculoskeletal disorders.

Workplace exercise may include;

Walking or standing meetings
Using mini-stepper devices in workplaces
Weekly training by a physiotherapist; our experts at St. Joseph's clinic can prescribe exercises and physical activity programs to engage the muscles.

3.Training and Education

Employers can invite a physiotherapist to Impart practical knowledge and provide necessary information on cautionary measures in the workspace area.
As physiotherapists, we are not only inclined to treat musculoskeletal conditions etc, but also perform health related education and training. This is aimed at preventing the occurrence of these potentially chronic conditions in the first place.

We will train staff in the following areas;
The best posture to assume In workspace or when using office devices
Information on the common risks associated with daily office tasks including reducing risk from common disorders,such as back and neck pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome
How to reduce risk of injury when handling office equipment

4. Break Schedules

Taking breaks in between work can also help prevent MSDs, we urge employers to create breaks in between work hours to reduce the risk of MSD. With frequent timed breaks (1.5-2 mins), musculoskeletal pain would decrease drastically.

5. Eliminate Monotonous Task By Making New Organizational Changes

Monotonous tasks can increase the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. For people who work as retail cashiers, heavy-duty lifters, the repetitiveness of such tasks strains the muscle which can lead to irreparable damage.

Employers can make significant changes in routine by;


Alternating workers through job rotation. This means workers can rotate shifts frequently.
Job Diversification; training staff on different organizational tasks can help prevent repetitiveness. Roles can be interchanged from time to time between employees.

6. An Early Report Of Symptoms To a Physiotherapist

Report cases of Musculoskeletal Disorders to your physiotherapist. Early symptoms of MSDs Include;

Numbness
Muscle tightness
Redness and inflammation of the affected area
Decreased sweating hands
Joint stiffness

Observing and reporting early signs is vital for preventing the long-term effect of musculoskeletal disorders.

Employers can take measures to secure their employees physical health and working years, by referring to a physiotherapist as soon as possible.
We also partner with a few HMOs such as Axa Mansard, Reliance HMO and Hygeia HMO for our clients whose workplaces subscribe to their health insurance. St. Joseph's Physiotherapy Clinic is at 21B Christ Avenue, off Admiralty Road, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos.