Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, Socioeconomic Impact and Prevention - A Narrative Review

Authors

• Swarna Radhakrishnan, JSS Academy of Higher Education and ResearchFollow
• Harini Ramendran, JSS Academy of Higher Education and ResearchFollow
• Priyanga Thirunavukkarasu, JSS Academy of Higher Education and ResearchFollow

Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0009-0004-7008-6214

Corresponding Author

Name: Swarna Radhakrishnan

Email: swarna.radhakrishnan88@gmail.com

Abstract

Abstract

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) represent one of the most pervasive and costly occupational health challenges worldwide. Affecting muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, joints, and supporting blood vessels, these conditions arise from a complex interplay of physical, psychosocial, organizational, and individual risk factors present across diverse work environments. From factory floors and construction sites to offices and healthcare settings, WMSDs contribute substantially to pain, disability, reduced productivity, absenteeism, and diminished quality of life. This narrative review synthesizes existing literature on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk factors, and socioeconomic impact of WMSDs, with particular attention to high-risk occupational sectors. It further discusses prevention and management strategies, including ergonomic interventions, workplace policy measures, and emerging approaches in occupational health. By highlighting gaps in current research and practice, this review underscores the urgent need for integrated, multidisciplinary strategies to prevent WMSDs and mitigate their long-term consequences.

Keywords

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders; occupational health; ergonomics; chronic pain; workplace injuries; productivity loss

Publication Date

Fall 12-28-2025

Publisher

JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research

Conflict of Interest

None

Keywords

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders; occupational health; ergonomics; chronic pain; workplace injuries; productivity loss

Word Count

3383

Recommended Citation

Radhakrishnan S, Ramendran H, Thirunavukkarasu P. Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, Socioeconomic Impact and Prevention - A Narrative Review. Digital Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2025; 8(1): -. doi: https://doi.org/10.55691/2582-3868.1296

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.