Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) is an umbrella term covering over 200 conditions that affect the muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, peripheral nerves and supporting blood vessels, causing pain and functional impairment. Musculoskeletal disorders are among the most prevalent conditions in the world.
MSDs can be non-specific or specific. Specific MSD are specific and progressive rheumatic diseases, such as arthritis, which are not caused by work, but may be made worse by work and affect smaller numbers.
Non-specific MSDs are frequently caused by work and are the most common. Some common causes include poor posture, repetitive movements, manual handling, awkward movements, forceful hand applications, direct mechanical pressure on body tissue, vibrations and cold work environment. The immediate impact may be minute, but when it occurs repeatedly the constant trauma causes damage.