What are Musculoskeletal Disorders?

Back AcheThere are two types of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD’s):

  1. Acute – is caused by something that happens as a result of one event, such as someone dropping a book on their toe and breaking it.
  2. Cumulative – injuries that build up over time due to repeated exposure to various risk factors, such as a poor workstation set up.
Common cumulative MSD’s include:

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Caused by repeated poor posture and subsequent compression of the Nerve Bundle between the neck and shoulder.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Caused by compression of the median nerve that runs through the Carpal Tunnel in the wrist. Could be caused by poor posture, repetition or contact stress.

Tendonitis
Inflammation of any tendon (connects muscle to bone). Primary concern is the upper extremities and wrist.

Tenosynovitis
Inflammation of the tendon and synovial sheath surrounding a joint. Symptoms include pain and stiffness in the joints, most commonly seen in the wrists and hand.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Compression of the ulnar nerve that runs through the forearm causing numbness and tingling in the ring and small fingers of the hand.

Medial and Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
Extensor muscle strain at the inside (medial) or outer (lateral) edge of the elbow. Caused by repetition of wrist extension.

Trigger Finger
Caused by forceful mouse clicks in an office setting. Palm is tender at the base of the finger. Also, fingers may snap at the joints or lock in place.

Rotator cuff Tendonitis
Inflammation of the Rotator Cuff Tendons in the Shoulder and the Bursa that surrounds the tendons (Also called "Bursitis").

Compressed Disc
The disc becomes smaller due to excessive static load on the spine. Can be caused by awkward postures or sitting for prolonged periods.

Spinal Disc Herniation
The disc is compressed on one side, causing the disc to "bulge", potentially affecting the surrounding nerves. Can affect any part of the spine and is caused by bending at the waist and using excessive force.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Caused by poor circulation and/or compression of the sciatic nerve.