Early intervention for musculoskeletal disorders among the working population

Introduction

This article concerns early intervention where work is compromised by or aggravates a musculoskeletal problem. The sooner a musculoskeletal problem is managed, the less likely it is that it will lead to long-term work loss. Early healthcare intervention consists of: rapid referral; diagnosis and clinical management by musculoskeletal specialists in the first week of work disability; patient education; early mobilisation; recommendations for physical activity; and support for returning to work. The main focus of the article is on how health care systems can provide early intervention, in cooperation with other services, to support the worker to continue in…