WRMD, Ergonomics and Orthopaedics in the workplace

Introduction
Musculoskeletal pain is the most common reason for consultation in Occupational Orthopaedics. Pain is always related to work by the patients and has received different names, the most common is Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMD).

Methods
A descriptive study has been carried out to evaluate the application of ergonomic measures in the prevention of WRMD in different workplaces.

Results
Two types of WRMD were described: a) specific WRMD related to physical work load and b) unspecific WRMD related to mental work and psychosocial factors. Non-occupational risk factors are able to modify the evolution of both types of WRMD. The application of combined physical and organizational ergonomic measures was the best approach for the prevention of both types of WRMD.

Discussion
WRMD are related not only to physical work but to mental work, psychosocial factors and non-occupational risk factors. Orthoapedic´s approach to the problem is unsufficient. The combination of physical and organizational ergonomic measures is the most useful tool in the prevention of WRMD. A multidisciplinary team is mandatory for an effective outcome.