MSDs: What you need to remember

MSD Info Point

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) of the upper and lower limbs are disorders of the musculoskeletal system for which the work activity can play a role in the genesis, maintenance or aggravation. MSDs mainly affect muscles, tendons and nerves, i.e. soft tissues.

They are the result of a combination of multiple causes related to the workstation and its environment, the organization of work, and the social climate in the company. The increase in productivity constraints and the intensification of work in a context of an ageing workforce explain at least in part the increase in MSDs in the working population over the last two decades.

MSDs are costly to the company. They are a major source of disorganization, can lead to a drop in performance for the company (decrease in productivity, quality…) and have a major impact on absenteeism and turnover.