MSD’s

There are multiple causes of Musculoskeletal Disorders. According to WebMD. “Muscle tissue can be damaged with the wear and tear of daily activities. Trauma to an area (jerking movements, auto accidents, falls, fractures, sprains, dislocations, and direct blows to the muscle) also can cause musculoskeletal pain. Other causes of pain include postural strain, repetitive movements, overuse, and prolonged immobilization. Changes in posture or poor body mechanics may bring about spinal alignment problems and muscle shortening, therefore causing other muscles to be misused and become painful.”

Each year, the Research Institute produces the Liberty Mutual Workplace Safety Index, which ranks the leading causes of serious, nonfatal work-related injuries in terms of direct workers compensation costs. The Index is based on information from Liberty Mutual Insurance, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the National Academy of Social Insurance.

Musculoskeletal Disorders represent almost one-third of all injuries and illnesses requiring days away from work. Since Musculoskeletal Disorders or MSD’s can easily cause serious pain and discomfort, you need to understand how and when you are at risk. Most workers feel that it is just part of the job. Many may think they are just going to tough it out. Identifying the risk factors are critically important. It will save you grief and pain in the long run and save you from more serious injury.

THE TOP 7 RISKS

The top 7 risk factors for developing a MSD injury can also depend on how often the task is performed and for how long the work related task lasts.

Number One:

Exerting Excessive Force : Lifting, pulling, pushing, or pouring heavy objects or people, equipment or tools.

Number Two:

Performing The Same Task Repetitively : Completing the same series of movements or motions on a frequent or continuing basis

 

 

 

 

 

Number Three:

Working in awkward or abnormal positions or postures: Repetitive reaching, kneeling, bent wrists, back, or twisting of the torso. Being in the same position for prolonged periods of time.

 

Number Four:

Localized pressure into the body part: Using a body part such as a hand or foot as a tool to hit, press, or pound.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Number Five:

Cold/Hot Temperatures: Working in an environment with excess cold or heat. Examples being a cold meat locker or hot attic.

 

 

 

 

 

Number Six:

Vibration: Using power tools that vibrate the hands, feet or whole body. This can cause loss of feeling or numbness

Number Seven:

Combined exposure to several of the above risk factors: The risk of MSD’s increase when multiple risk factors as mentioned above are combined.

If you’ve been injured in the last two years, you may be entitled to compensation! Click here to see if You Qualify For Compensation