The Blog

Common Work-Related MSK injuries and How to Prevent Them

Explore some of the most common workplace MSK injuries, their causes and simple practical steps you can take to prevent them.

BIA

09/04/25

The Blog

Common Work-Related MSK injuries and How to Prevent Them

Explore some of the most common workplace MSK injuries, their causes and simple practical steps you can take to prevent them.

Introduction

Musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries are one of the most common causes of work-related illness and absenteeism in the UK, making up for 32% of all work-related ill health. They can affect anyone, from office workers to manual labourers, and often result from repetitive tasks, poor ergonomics, or lack of movement throughout the day.

At Back In Action UK, we support employees and employers is identifying early risks and building healthier, safer workplaces. In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common workplace MSK injuries, their causes and simple practical steps you can take to prevent them.

What are MSK injuries?

MSK injuries affect the body’s muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. They can range from minor strains to chronic conditions that effect mobility and overall wellbeing. The key to managing MSK issues is prevention, catching them early and getting the appropriate treatment.

 

Lower Back Pain

Likely Causes: Poor Posture, prolonged sitting and standing, and improper lifting techniques

Common in: Office roles, construction, and healthcare

Prevention:

  • Employers to promote correct lifting practices
  • Using ergonomic seating and workstation setups
  • Encourage movement breaks throughout the day

Neck and Shoulder Pain

Likely Causes: Hunched posture, prolonged screen time, phone cradling (holding the phone between your shoulder and ear) and incorrect display screen equipment setup

Common in: Desk based roles, remote work, customer service

Prevention:

  • Adjust screen height and monitor position
  • Use headset for calls
  • Employers to promote education on correct posture and ergonomics
  • Encourage regular posture checks and stretches

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

Likely Causes: Repeated motion overtime with no proper breaks (e.g. typing, scanning, manual tasks)

Common in: Admin, retail, manufacturing

Prevention:

  • Rotate tasks when possible
  • Employers to provide ergonomic tools such as better keyboard/mouse
  • Introduce microbreaks and targeted exercises

Knee and Hip Pain

Likely Causes: Repeated squatting, heaving lifting, and prolonged standing

Common in: Construction, healthcare, hospitality

Prevention:

  • Use proper footwear and protective gear
  • Employer to provide safe lifting and movement techniques
  • Provide anti-fatigue matting or sit-stand options

Tendonitis and Elbow Injuries

Likely Causes: Overuse of forearm muscles from lifting, gripping, or using tools

Common in: Trades, warehouse work, sport/fitness roles

Prevention:

  • Employer to provide ergonomic tools and equipment
  • Schedule rest periods for repetitive tasks
  • Offer early treatment access such as physiotherapy.

Why Prevention Matters

Musculoskeletal (MSK) injury prevention is essential for both individual wellbeing and organisational performance. Ignoring early warning signs of MSK injuries can lead to chronic pain, reduced performance, and long-term absence. For employers it can mean increased sick leave and high absence rates, higher costs from injury claims or agency cover, and reduced employee morale and productivity.

How Employers Can Help

  • Ergonomic Assessments – tailored workstation setups that promote posture and reduce strain
  • Training and Education – Manual handling, movement awareness, and workplace health sessions
  • Encourage Early Reporting – A proactive culture helps address minor issues before they become major
  • Promote Movement – Stretching breaks, active meetings, walking challenges and sit-stand desks

Preventing MSK injuries is not just about supporting employee’s health and wellbeing, preventing injuries is far more cost effective than managing long-term absences, and a workplace that prioritises health and wellbeing fosters high morale and employee engagement.

At Back In Action UK, we help businesses create safer, healthier workplaces through occupational health physiotherapy and ergonomic services. Explore more of our services.

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