The Hidden Cost of Ignoring Aches at Work

A custodian strains his shoulder while lifting a trash can. A teacher’s muscles are tired after a long day of standing in front of her class.  A bus driver’s back throbs every Friday afternoon.

These are just a few examples of aches and pains, collectively called musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), that can develop into major—and costly—injuries. The average work-related strain, for example, costs about $67,000, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Recognizing and addressing MSD warning signs early are critical to controlling their impact.

Key Term: Musculoskeletal Disorder

A condition that affects the parts of your body that help you move, like your muscles, bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and nerves

High-Risk Tasks

• Custodians and Maintenance Staff: Heavy lifting, repetitive motion, slippery surfaces
• Teachers and Aides: Prolonged standing, classroom setup that strains the body
• Food Service Staff: Fast-paced environments and repetitive tasks
• Bus Drivers: Long periods of sitting, vibration exposure, and awkward postures

Common Signs of MSDs

• Constant soreness or stiffness, especially in the back, neck, shoulders, or knees
• Tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
• Swelling, redness, or visible strains in joints or muscles
• Limping or favoring one side of the body
• Altered posture or movement

Employees’ Role

• Take frequent breaks from lifting, bending, and standing for long periods
• Work slowly and at a consistent pace
• Watch for discomfort during routine activities
• Stretch lightly before a shift or workday

Leadership’s Role

• Encourage employees to report warning signs early. Make it clear that early reporting is a sign of responsibility, not weakness.
• Train supervisors to recognize signs of discomfort and respond supportively.  
• Provide clear reporting channels and identify/address root causes.
• Consider providing equipment or developing new processes that help injured workers do their jobs.
  • Examples: A custodian lifting trash bins might benefit from a revised workflow that includes carts or team lifts. A teacher frequently bending to assist students could benefit from adjustable furniture or alternate positioning techniques.

MSDs often develop slowly as a result of long-term exposure. By staying alert to subtle signs of MSDs and fostering a culture where reporting discomfort is encouraged, administrators and staff can work together to prevent minor aches from becoming major injuries.