Epidemiology of work-related musculoskeletal disorders

Abstract Purpose of review To assess the methodological approach to epidemiological research on musculoskeletal disorders and diseases based on current scientific position. Recent findings Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are the leading contributor to disability worldwide, with low back pain being the single primary cause of disability in most of the countries in the world. However, there is still a lack of comparable data because of different case definitions, which are split according to body region/specific disease. Traditionally related to physical overload, current evidence shows that MSDs might result from hereditary, congenital, or acquired pathologic processes. The term work-related MSDs (WRMSDs) is commonly used when reasonable association with occupational physical and psychosocial conditions is recognized. Summary After decades of research, we still find gaps in the literature on WRMSDs, especially concerning diagnostic criteria, workplace exposure assessment, and compensation. The impact of new technologies, flexible/remote work, new forms of employment, changes in the working environment as well as of sedentary work, is now emerging. Therefore, conventional forms of epidemiological research in MSD prevention, needs to be adapted. Together with ongoing harmonization policies, new perspectives for exposure and clinical assessment are required, as well as strategies for monitoring large cohorts of individuals along the working day and the lifespan. There is a need for new approaches for planning and promoting interventions to prevent MSDs and to support vulnerable groups.