Mehiläinen’s musculoskeletal treatment path supports work ability and saves costs

Musculoskeletal problems are one of the most common factors that impair work ability both in Finland and internationally. They cause a significant proportion of sickness-related absences and affect almost every working-age person at some point. Musculoskeletal problems can affect everyday life and the efficiency of work in many ways, but timely support and treatment can prevent prolonged issues. Early identification and streamlined referral to treatment are key factors in supporting work ability.

Mehiläinen’s musculoskeletal treatment path: Effective treatment for musculoskeletal disorders

The musculoskeletal treatment path developed by Mehiläinen offers an effective solution to employees’ musculoskeletal problems. The aim of the path is to ensure that every customer suffering from musculoskeletal disorders receives the most effective treatment possible.

We know that the majority of musculoskeletal problems are functional, not pathological. Most of them can be resolved quickly with the correct, targeted treatment, which prevents prolonged symptoms. Therefore, it is important that the patient is met with genuine care and truly listened to, and that an individualised, clear treatment path is built around their needs. It is also essential that the patient is provided with a clear and comprehensible explanation of their symptoms. Uncertainty increases fear and can worsen symptoms, and no one should be left alone to wonder why their body is reacting this way.

About 92 per cent of Mehiläinen’s musculoskeletal treatment paths include 0 to 10 days of sickness absence. This means that most of the ailments are mild and the employee recovers quickly when they receive help from a suitable specialist at the right time. Preventive measures are emphasised in treatment paths with few sickness-related absences. Early intervention, prevention and influencing stress factors are key. The key is an active, listening approach that supports the employee’s understanding and motivation.

Occupational physiotherapist plays a key role — effectiveness is tied to the bigger picture

At Mehiläinen, customers with musculoskeletal symptoms are often referred to an occupational physiotherapist. An occupational physiotherapist is a specialist in musculoskeletal issues, and a significant proportion of the symptoms do not require a doctor’s appointment in the acute phase. This enables shorter and more efficient treatment chains. If needed, the occupational physiotherapist will refer the customer to a doctor or another occupational health professional.

We know that treatment paths initiated at an occupational physiotherapist’s appointment reduce sickness-related absences and are a cost-effective solution for the employer. An occupational physiotherapist can assess the need for sickness-related absence and consult a doctor on the need for medication, for example.

At Mehiläinen, occupational physiotherapists are an important part of multidisciplinary occupational health care cooperation. An occupational physiotherapist is a specialist in physical activity and the working environment, whose professional skills can be used to plan an effective whole and target measures precisely to the challenges that need to be addressed.

The article was written by Anna Gustafsson, Head of Musculoskeletal Services at Mehiläinen.