Clinical Insights: Musculoskeletal Disorders, The Silent Claims Killer

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSK) account for nearly 20% of employer healthcare spend, making them one of the most significant but under-appreciated cost drivers. Low back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and in workforce populations it is especially costly due to absenteeism, presenteeism, and high rates of recurrence. Despite its prevalence, many MSK cases do not have a clear anatomic cause.

From a clinical standpoint, the driver is often deconditioning rather than structural damage. Weak musculature, poor posture, and lack of movement predispose employees to chronic pain. Evidence-based guidelines now emphasize early activation rather than prolonged rest, as inactivity worsens functional outcomes and increases reliance on opioids or invasive procedures.

For employers, this means that traditional approaches — imaging, pain management, or reactive treatment — are costly and ineffective. Without proactive, movement-based strategies, MSK conditions spiral into chronic claims and productivity loss.

 

Healthbreak’s movement-focused programs reduce MSK risk before it escalates. By engaging employees in daily functional activity, we build resilience and reduce the burden of musculoskeletal claims for employers.

 

To explore how this can be tailored for your employer clients, we welcome a conversation.