How to Prevent Musculoskeletal Injuries at Work

Musculoskeletal injuries (MSDs) are one of the most common health issues affecting Australian’s. In fact, an estimated 7.3 million Australians (29%) live with chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Of these:

• 4.0 million (16%) experience back problems. 
• 3.7 million (15%) live with arthritis. 
• 854,000 (3.4%) are affected by osteoporosis or osteopenia (ABS, 2023). 

These figures highlight why musculoskeletal health should be a priority both at work and in daily life. 

Understanding the Risk of Injury and Illness

Everyone’s risk of musculoskeletal injuries are different. Personal factors that may increase your risk of injury and illness are: 

• Physical fitness.
• Past or current injuries or illness.
• Eating habits.
• Type of physical activity.
• Attitude. 
• Age. 

Types of Musculoskeletal Injuries and Illnesses 

Acute Injuries 

Acute injuries occur suddenly and are usually the result of an unexpected event. This may cause a person to have immediate pain or damage. 

Chronic Injuries 

On the other hand, chronic injuries develop gradually over time due to repetitive strain or prolonged exposure to lower levels of force. These injuries tend to persist for months or even years and are often cumulative.

The Connection between Mental Health and Musculoskeletal Health

Mental Health plays a bigger role in physical wellbeing than some may realise. Conditions such as anxiety and depression can lead to:

• Increased muscle tension. 
• Heightened pain sensitivity (psychomsomatic symptoms). 
• Fatigue and low energy. 
• Inflammation triggered by hormonal changes. 
• Side effects from medication, such as stiffness or joint pain. 

Supporting mental wellbeing can therefore have a direct, positive impact on musculoskeletal health. 

Musculoskeletal Related Health Conditions 

Arthritis 

Arthritis causes inflammation, pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. While there’s no cure, several management and prevention strategies can help:

Treatment options include:

• Medications (e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen). 
• Low-impact resistance training (e.g. swimming, walking, cycling). 
• Surgery, such as joint replacement.
• Complementary therapies (e.g. yoga, acupuncture).

Prevention strategies include: 

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Regular exercise/strength training.
• Avoid smoking.
• Limit alcohol.

Musculoskeletal Safety Beyond the Workplace 

While workplaces are proactive about managing hazards, injuries sustained outside of work can also impact employees’ capacity and safety at work. Non-work-related injuries may:

• Employees mobility unable to follow safe work procedures.
• Reducing the prevalence of incident/injury reporting.
• Employees using annual leave for injury recovery.
• Increased risk to employee’s psychological health.

Prevention Strategies for Musculoskeletal Injuries 

Pre-Employment Screenings

Pre-Employment Health Assessments (PEHAs) are an effective way to ensure that an individual’s fitness and health are aligned with job requirements. They also help identify potential risks before they lead to injury.

Wellness Programs

Promoting wellbeing in the workplace can make a real difference. Examples include:

• Pre-work warm up or stretch.
• Share healthy recipes for workers to cook.
• Have health professionals educate workers on preventing musculoskeletal injuries.
• Supply healthy snack options in workplace kitchen areas.
• Drinking more water challenge.
• Organise a pilates, yoga or meditation class.
• Organise health screenings.
• Virtual exercise classes.
• Women’s health sessions.
• Mothers club.

Suitable Duties 

Offering suitable duties for non-work related injuries allows organisations to maintain their workforce ensuring a risk-based approach is followed.

Encouraging Preparation 

Preparation can go a long way in preventing injuries:

• Warm up and stretch before activity
• Stay hydrated and eat well
• Dress appropriately for conditions
• Plan for emergencies or unexpected events
• Build strength and resilience before surgeries or major life changes