MSK Q&A

A musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) occur when stress put on a body tissue like:

• muscles

• tendons

• nerves

• ligaments

• cartilage

that is greater than the tissue's ability to sustain or repair.

Common examples of MSK conditions include:

• Tendon Sprains

• Muscle Strains

• Cumulative Trauma Disorders

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome

  • Rotator cuff pathology

  • Epicondylitis (tennis/golfers elbow)

  • Tendinopathies

You can develop a MSK condition with a one time traumatic event like picking up something too heavy, rolling an ankle, but often they develop slowly over time from things like:

• Repetitive motions

• Forceful exertions

  • pulling/pushing

  • lifting

  • gripping

• Awkward postures

• Tissue compression

• Fast movements

• Vibration

• Lack recovery time

You can reduce risk of these conditions through prevention efforts like ergonomic work design, ensuring employees can meet the demands of their job, and intervening early if something is contributing to pain.

Early intervention means getting on top of problems early when it is easier to fix.

If a person notices trends in discomfort or pain that isn't getting better, creating an environment where they can get the expertise of a MSK expert (Physical Therapist) for guidance on how to proceed.

Waiting longer to address MSK issues means they are harder to treat, more expensive, more debilitating, and more time consuming.