posted on 2020-07-15, 23:28authored byJoanne CrawfordJoanne Crawford, Danielle Berkovic, Jo Erwin, Sarah M Copsey, Alice Davis, Evanthia Giagloglou, Amin Yazdani, Jan Hartvigsen, Richard Graveling, Anthony Woolf
Musculoskeletal (MSK) problems remain the most frequent reason
why individuals are absent from work, including those with workrelated
musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs or MSDs) and those
with chronic MSK problems. This paper aims to examine changes
in work and the workforce since 2000; how work impacts on
chronic MSK conditions and how we can help people with these
conditions to stay at work. While our knowledge of the causes of
WRMSDs has increased since 2000, there has been limited workplace
action in reducing exposure to hazards. A life course
approach is needed as individuals of all ages are reporting MSK
problems. How people work has also changed and informalisation
of work contracts has increased with a perceived concurrent
reduction in occupational safety and health (OSH) protection.
Retaining people at work with MSK problems requires compliance
with relevant safety, health and diversity legislation and a risk
management approach. Good and open communication within the
workplace and identification of other sources of support is also necessary. Considerations must be made at the individual level
(internal motivation), organisational level (a supportive manager)
and self-management of symptoms. Simple case examples are
provided in the paper of what works in practice as well as a proposed
research agenda. Increased awareness at all levels of society
of MSK health is essential.
History
Preferred citation
Crawford, J., Berkovic, D., Erwin, J., Copsey, S. M., Davis, A., Giagloglou, E., Yazdani, A., Hartvigsen, J., Graveling, R. & Woolf, A. (2020). Musculoskeletal health in the workplace. Best Practice and Research: Clinical Rheumatology, 101558-101558. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.berh.2020.101558