Workplace MSK Disorders: Tackling the £7 Billion Problem

Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the most pressing health concerns in modern workplaces. From prolonged sitting to poor ergonomic setups, these issues not only affect employee wellbeing but also have a significant financial impact on businesses. For HR professionals and employee benefits specialists, understanding the risks and proactively addressing MSK disorders can mean the difference between escalating costs and a healthier, more productive workforce.

What are MSK disorders and why are they a workplace concern?

MSK disorders refer to injuries or conditions affecting muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints. They are a leading cause of workplace absenteeism and reduced productivity. According to Public Health England, 6.6 million working days were lost in 2022/23 due to work-related MSK disorders—accounting for 21% of all work-related ill health absences. Furthermore, work-related MSK disorders cost UK employers approximately £7 billion annually, including lost productivity and healthcare expenses.

Typical workplace factors contributing to MSK risks include:

• Prolonged sitting in office environments.
• Poor ergonomic setups at desks or workstations.
• Manual handling tasks requiring heavy lifting or repetitive movements.
• Repetitive tasks, common in factory or warehouse roles.

The shift to remote work has exacerbated these risks. A recent survey found that 37.7% of remote workers experience MSK-related disorders, largely due to suboptimal home office setups.

The financial impact of MSK disorders on businesses

MSK-related absenteeism and workplace injuries create a ripple effect of financial challenges.

1. Increased healthcare claims and compensation costs:
   Employees suffering from MSK disorders are more likely to make health insurance claims or require workers’ compensation, driving up costs for employers.
2. Rising insurance premiums:
   Insurers assess workplace health risks, including MSK claims history and preventative measures. Businesses with high MSK-related incidents often face increased premiums, compounding the financial strain.
3. Lost productivity:
   With millions of working days lost annually, the financial toll on businesses is staggering. The estimated £7 billion annual cost includes not only absenteeism but also decreased workplace efficiency and employee turnover.

The role of Preventative Care in managing Insurance Premiums

Proactive MSK management is key to reducing health claims and improving workplace safety, which can positively influence insurance assessments. By addressing MSK risks early:

• Businesses can lower the frequency and severity of claims.
• Insurers view companies with robust prevention strategies as lower risk, potentially leading to reduced premiums.

Preventative care isn’t just a financial decision—it’s a strategic investment in employee wellbeing.

Reducing MSK risks in the workplace

To tackle MSK risks effectively, HR and wellbeing professionals can implement a range of strategies.

DocHQ MSK Solutions: A Smarter Approach

DocHQ offers innovative, AI-powered solutions designed to address MSK disorders head-on:

• AI-driven physiotherapy platforms: Detect and correct MSK issues early with real-time feedback that ensures employees perform exercises effectively.
• At-home and workplace health checks: Assess MSK risks and provide actionable recommendations to mitigate them.
• Convenient accessibility: Employees can access physiotherapy and health checks from anywhere, reducing barriers to care.

Other strategies to reduce MSK risks and insurance Costs

• Ergonomic assessments: Regularly review workstations and workflows to ensure proper setup and alignment.
• Employee training: Teach proper posture, lifting techniques, and stretching exercises to reduce strain.
• Encouraging movement: Promote regular breaks and micro-movements to counteract prolonged sitting.

Addressing MSK risks benefits everyone. Employees experience better health and reduced discomfort, while employers see fewer absences, improved productivity, and lower insurance premiums. Proactive MSK management is not just a cost-saving measure, it’s a strategic investment in workplace wellbeing and long-term sustainability.

Discover how DocHQ can help you reduce MSK risks, improve employee health, and lower your insurance premiums. To find out more, visit Zest’s Marketplace page.