CO-MORBID MUSCULOSKELETAL COMPLAINTS - HOW COMMON ARE THEY AND WHAT IMPACT DO THEY HAVE?

摘要

Musculoskeletal pain complaints remain a major problem within working populations across the globe. They are typically seen as 'single issue' cases and it is rare for co-morbid pain symptoms to be considered (i.e. pain in other body regions). This study shows that musculoskeletal pain is widespread, with the majority of individuals reporting pain in the last month. Reporting pain in only one region was comparatively rare however and individuals are more likely to exhibit pain in multiple sites. Those experiencing pain in multiple regions are more likely to take sickness-related absence and that absence is likely to be longer. They are also at much higher risk of significant negative health outcomes. Ergonomists must be cognisant of this when working within the field of musculoskeletal disorders.