Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)

Signs and Symptoms

Signs

Signs or objective physical findings of a possible MSD include: 

• Decreased range of motion
• Decreased grip strength
• Loss of muscle function
• Deformity

Symptoms

In addition to the above Signs, symptoms include:

• Pain – in joints, hands, feet, wrists, shoulder forearms, legs back or neck.  The pain can be a shooting, stabbing or achy feeling
• Numbness or Tingling
• Changes in Skin Color – such as turning a blush color
• Changes is Skin Temperature – such as a burning sensation
• Stiffness or Weakness
• Swelling or Inflammation

MSDs can also result from activities other than work, which involve repetitive motion or sustained awkward positions, such as sports or hobbies.  Work and non-work activities may together contribute to, aggravate, or accelerate the development of MSDs.   This can make it difficult to determine the main cause of a MSD. These disorders can also be aggravated by medical conditions such as renal disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, multiple myeloma, thyroid disorders, amyloid disease and pregnancy.

What Should I Do? 

Recognize the signs and symptoms and be seen by a physician as soon as possible.  Treatment is more successful if the disorder is diagnosed early.  The longer you wait, the greater the chance that your injury may result in a permanent disability.  It is important to remember that each individual and each injury is different.  Always see a doctor before taking any medication or starting any therapy on your own. 

If you believe the signs and symptoms are caused by your work, you need to report this to your supervisor immediately.  Work related (industrial injuries) are seen by the staff at the Occupational Medicine Clinic. Workers’ Compensation Information

Medical treatment will vary for each type of MSD.  Usually the best treatment is rest from the activity that caused the problem or a change in work practices.  Remember the restrictions given by your treating physician apply to all activities, whether here at LLUH or at home.   Employees who restrict their activities as instructed, both at work and at home, recover faster and have less permanent disability. The treating physician may request an ergonomic workstation assessment to:

• Identify postural risk factors for the musculoskeletal disorder
• Provide recommendations for neutral work postures, proper equipment usage, and equipment when necessary to minimize exposure to risk factors

Prevention

MSD injuries can often be prevented by remembering the following: 

• Take a Minute to adjust your work and workstation for YOU.
• Posture Counts whether you are sitting, standing or lifting, work from a neutral posture, a posture when your body is in a natural alignment and nothing is stressed or strained.
• Relax work from a comfortable and relaxed posture. Tense muscles are more susceptible to strains and spasms. Stretch and exercise throughout the day.
• Keep Your Work in Your Strength Zone (between your knees and shoulders) store heavier items in the area of you strength zone, avoid work at or above shoulder level. Keep your elbows next to your side.
• Push Rather than Pull (such as computers-on-wheels, gurneys, wheelchairs and dollies) When pushing, handles should be between your elbow and hip, with your elbows at your side
• Take Breaks give your body a chance to recover from awkward or static postures, or repetitive activities by taking mini-stretch breaks. Frequently changing positions promotes blood flow to the large muscle groups. One to two minute activity breaks every hour help to protect against health complications associated with inactivity. Required am/pm breaks and lunch give your body a chance to recover from physical tasks. Tired muscles are at risk for injury.
• Work Safe know your limitations. Lighten the load when possible or use hand trucks, lifts, sliding boards or other lifting devices or equipment. Ask for assistance.
• Improve your Physical Conditioning being in good physical condition helps avoid sprains, strains and other injuries.