The most common disorders affect arms and backs. Rotator cuff syndrome inflammation, degeneration and tearing of the tendons about the shoulder. Fractured wrists due to falls. Musculoskeletal disorders are among the most common and costly occupational injuries and illnesses in the United States and in Washington State. They represent a huge toll of pain and suffering and lost productivity that affect both employers and workers.
Compensable claims tend to be more serious as they involve four or more days off work.
Musculoskeletal disorders kept employees off work for 24 million days between 1989 and 1996. The lost work time had the same effect as removing 12,250 employees from the workforce each year. Excessive force, awkward postures or certain physical motions repeated over extended periods of time pose the greatest risk of MSDs. Repetitive lifting or repetitive motion of the hands or arms using excessive force. Handling objects far from the body, above the shoulder, below the knees, or in a twisted position.