Table of Contents
1. Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs): The Disease of the Century
2. What are the risk factors?
Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs): The Disease of the Century
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are conditions that affect the joints, muscles, and tendons and may be caused by work-related activities. Neck pain, lower back pain, tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome… You may be familiar with these terms: in any case, they are the most common MSDs. MSDs are the most common occupational disease in several European countries. Fifteen percent of women and 11% of men aged 20 to 59 suffer from at least one of the major upper-limb MSDs. In France, there are more than 46,000 new cases compensated each year, and 50% of those affected are left with irreversible sequelae.
What are the risk factors?
Several factors that contribute to the onset of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) have been identified: poor workstation setup, improper use of the keyboard and mouse, stress, fatigue, and the type of tasks to be performed. Noise levels, lighting, and temperature at the workstation are also risk factors to consider. By addressing these various factors, it is possible to reduce the risk of developing MSDs. For more information, see our advice sheet titled “Office Ergonomics: What Tools Should You Use to Prevent MSDs?”
Further Reading
In addition to proper workstation setup, preventing musculoskeletal disorders also involves stretching and warm-up exercises that can be easily done at your desk. Discover 7 daily exercises to prevent musculoskeletal disorders in our tip sheet.
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Illustration: ©Azergo 2015
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