Musculoskeletal Disorders – An Umbrella Term
The expression ‘Musculoskeletal Disorder’, or MSD, is an umbrella term. It encompasses a number of conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system, which is made up of the following:
- joints
- muscles
- tendons
- ligaments
- nerves
- blood vessels
In these cases, the affected areas experience the following issues:
- pain
- tingling sensation
- numbness
- loss of strength
- limited range of motion
These symptoms often occur because the musculoskeletal system undergoes excessive stress. For example, it is common to feel neck pain when you have worked too long in front of a screen.
However, Musculoskeletal Disorders can take many forms. A Musculoskeletal Specialist is able to assist with conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system.
Who is affected by Musculoskeletal Disorders?
Professionals who work for long hours normally suffer the most from Musculoskeletal Disorders. In fact, in Europe anywhere between 40 and 60 percent of workers report an MSD. However, the specific kind of condition that they suffer from depends a lot on the work that they do. In some cases these conditions are caused by work and in others work can exacerbate an existing condition.
Many MSD’s are age-related. An example of an age-related condition would be osteoarthritis.
Accidents can also lead to an MSD.
Musculoskeletal Disorders and load bearing
The WHO (World Health Organization) says that MSD’s occur when a particular part of the body attempts to bear more load than it can carry. Such activities are common. The only way to alleviate the strain of overloading is rest, which allows your body tissues to heal.
Conclusion
Musculoskeletal Disorders can be prevented by keeping in good shape and not overloading from bodies. Having good work environments and learning how to keep your body healthy while undertaking repetitive or strenuous tasks is an important first step. Once an MSD occurs, it is advisable to have a Musculoskeletal Specialist treat it swiftly.
