Understanding MSD
About MSD
Musculoskeletal Disorders (or MSD) at work is an umbrella term for a number of injuries and disorders of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, and nerves. Many body areas can be affected. The low back is the most commonly affected, followed by the shoulders, neck, elbow, hands, and wrists. Other terms with the same meaning include:
- Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
- Cumulative Trauma Disorder (CTD)
- Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorder (WMSD)
- Musculoskeletal injury (MSI or MSK)
- Occupational Overuse Syndrome (OOS)
What is an MSD?
Symptoms of MSD can be different, depending on the specific MSD, but can include:
- Pain with or without restriction of movement
- Swelling and tenderness
- Reduced range of motion and/or stiffness
- Tinging and/or numbness
Workers should talk with their supervisor, manager, or business owner about their pain at work and the possible causes. Pain that doesn't disappear before the start of work the next day, continues over the weekend, or results in time off work should lead workers to speak up immediately.
Types of MSD
Many tissues of the body can be affected by musculoskeletal disorders, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, and nerves. Also, many body areas can be affected. On this page you will find common examples of types of MSD.
MSD Hazards in the Workplace
A workplace hazard is a potential source of harm to a worker. The harm in this case is the potential development of a Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) such as shoulder pain. MSD hazards typically appear when the way that work is organized brings the worker and the work environment together. Hazards include:
- Awkward postures
- High repetition, static postures
- High forces
- Vibration, Local contact stress, Temperature
Workplace Prevention of MSD
Why should you take action to prevent MSD?
- It’s the law
- It’s the right thing to do
- It's good for business
Find different strategies to identify hazards, assess, control, and eliminate risks.
Reporting MSD Injuries
Has an injury occurred in the workplace? Employers are required to report injuries to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) and/or the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development (MLITSD). Find out more about your requirements and steps to report here.
Want to search the resource library?
Find all the available resources on the MSD prevention website, including posters, videos, and links to relevant websites.