According to Government data, musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are the leading cause of pain and disability in England and account for one of the highest causes of sickness absence and productivity loss. Musculoskeletal conditions encompass a wide range of issues affecting the body’s joints, bones, muscles and nerves, from minor injuries like strains and sprains to chronic conditions like arthritis and osteoporosis.
Employees suffering from these conditions often struggle to perform their roles effectively, leading to increased absenteeism and reduced workplace efficiency. Without early intervention, issues can escalate, requiring extended leave or even resulting in long-term disability.
By focusing on enhancing workers’ health and preventing musculoskeletal conditions, physiotherapy is a vital component of occupational health that not only addresses immediate injuries but also contributes to long-term workforce health.
It’s not just older people who can suffer from musculoskeletal conditions. Different work responsibilities can lead to different musculoskeletal problems, therefore effective workplace physiotherapy services will help employees across a range of industries.
Ensuring all your employees have access to a physiotherapy service is essential. Within the workplace, musculoskeletal symptoms are often caused by incorrect handling, repetitive strain injury or posture issues or not having equipment in the workplace personally adjusted.
At home, unsuitable home-office setups have resulted in more MSK issues. For example, sitting at a desk can cause back, wrist and neck pain due to seating and computer screens positioned at uncomfortable angles.
A workplace physiotherapist is a healthcare professional who assesses, diagnoses and treats people in the workplace for MSK related conditions either face-to-face or online. We provide workstation assessments and can give advice on lifting and carrying techniques, so that your employees don’t further injure themselves when doing manual work.
When you see a physiotherapist at work, they will typically conduct an initial assessment to understand your condition and how it affects your work. They may also conduct an onsite assessment and share findings with your manager or HR department.
If necessary, the physiotherapist will then develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Afterwards, follow-up assessments will be conducted to evaluate your readiness for work tasks, alongside potential recommendations for adjustments to facilitate your return to the workplace.
Physiotherapy is a key component in workplace absence prevention, helping employees remain healthy, productive, and engaged in their roles. Choose Occupational Health work with a network of accredited physiotherapists across the country, ensuring that your employees get access to the right help at the right time
Our professional physiotherapy services benefit both your team and your business, providing rehabilitation and treatment for your staff, aiming to support their return to work and prevent further injury.
Get in touch today to learn more about our workplace physiotherapy services and how we can help your employees to access physiotherapy solutions through our Workplace Health Surveillance services.
