Workers in certain types of New York occupations may be at risk for musculoskeletal disorders. Job-related accidents could lead to such injuries. These are the biggest risk factors.
Different types of work-related musculoskeletal injuries
There are several types of work-related musculoskeletal injuries employees could suffer. These injuries affect the muscles, nerves and tendons and are often painful and limit the individual’s range of motion and normal function of the area impacted. In most cases, areas of the body that are affected include the back and neck or wrists and fingers.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common types of workplace injuries. Tendonitis is another type of work-related musculoskeletal injury and is often a precursor to carpal tunnel.
Repetitive motion and repetitive strain injuries include a wide range of problems. These injuries are caused by improper workstations in the workplace.
Overuse syndrome occurs when a worker has repeatedly performed some sort of motion due to their job duties without rest breaks. Many instances of such injuries could be prevented with regular breaks.
Soft tissue disorders can develop when a person experiences strain and sprain. Poor ergonomics can also lead to the development of these injuries.
Factors that cause a risk of musculoskeletal injuries in the workplace
Poor ergonomics rate as one of the top factors putting workers at risk of these serious injuries. If the workstation is not properly set up to accommodate the employee to prevent musculoskeletal strain, any of these types of injuries can develop over time.
Heavy lifting, stretching and straining can cause workers to sustain musculoskeletal injuries. Other risk factors include being overweight and smoking.
Being stationary in the workplace for long hours can also increase the risk of these injuries. Workers must take regular rest breaks. Even standing to stretch for a few minutes can help prevent job-related musculoskeletal injuries.