NEW! Musculoskeletal Disorder Resource
Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are a widespread health problem that can result in long term pain and suffering. MSDs are extremely common in farmers and rural workers due to the physical nature of most of the tasks common to the farm including repetitive motions, awkward posture and heavy loads.
Over 90% of farmers are expected to experience some type of MSD in their lifetime. Recent research at the Musculoskeletal Health and Ergonomics Lab at the Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture (CCHSA) suggests that shoulder, lower back, and neck MSDs are the most frequently experienced MSDs in Saskatchewan farmers and rural workers. Compared to other industries, back and upper limb disorders are significantly more frequent in farmers and rural workers.