Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Post-Military Population: A Growing Concern

Image by Star and Stripes 2021

By Rosabel Zohfeld, APRN, MSN-Ed, FNP-C

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a pressing health concern affecting the post-military population. The rigorous physical demands and potential injuries sustained during military service can have lasting effects on the musculoskeletal system. This article explores the prevalence, types, contributing factors, and the need for comprehensive care for veterans dealing with musculoskeletal disorders.

Prevalence and Types of Musculoskeletal Disorders:

Among post-military individuals, musculoskeletal disorders are highly prevalent. These conditions encompass a range of issues involving muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, and joints. Common MSDs in veterans include chronic pain, osteoarthritis, back problems, joint pain, and soft tissue injuries. These conditions often arise due to the physical strain and repetitive movements endured during their time in the military.

Contributing Factors:

Several factors contribute to the development of musculoskeletal disorders in the post-military population. Intense physical training, combat-related injuries, carrying heavy gear, prolonged standing, and exposure to repetitive motions increase the risk of developing MSDs. Additionally, mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can exacerbate musculoskeletal issues, creating a complex interplay between physical and psychological well-being.

Challenges Faced by Veterans:

Musculoskeletal disorders can substantially impact a veteran's daily life, affecting mobility, employment opportunities, and overall quality of life. Chronic pain and physical limitations may hinder their ability to engage in regular activities, leading to frustration, depression, and loss. Accessing appropriate healthcare, rehabilitation, and social support can be challenging, amplifying the burden of these conditions.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) can have a profound and lasting impact on military veterans due to their unique physical demands and experiences during service. These disorders can affect their physical health, mental well-being, daily activities, employment opportunities, and overall quality of life.

Physical Health:

Veterans often experience musculoskeletal issues, including chronic pain, osteoarthritis, back problems, joint pain, and soft tissue injuries. These conditions can result from combat-related injuries, repetitive strain, heavy gear usage, and exposure to challenging physical environments during military service. The chronic nature of these conditions can significantly impede their ability to engage in physical activities and lead to a decreased quality of life.

Mobility and Functional Limitations:

MSDs can limit mobility and functionality, making it difficult for veterans to perform everyday tasks such as walking, lifting objects, or even getting out of bed. MSDs can lead to a loss of independence and increased reliance on others for assistance, impacting their sense of self-sufficiency and dignity.

Mental Health Impact:

Musculoskeletal disorders often coincide with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This combination of physical pain and mental health issues can create a vicious cycle, where the physical discomfort exacerbates mental distress and vice versa, affecting their overall well-being.

Employment and Occupational Challenges:

Veterans may find securing or maintaining employment challenging due to their musculoskeletal issues. Specific jobs, especially those with physical demands, may become inaccessible, limiting their career options and potentially leading to financial strain and insecurity.

Social Isolation and Relationship Strain:

MSDs can result in social isolation as veterans may withdraw from social activities due to pain, mobility limitations, or discomfort. MSDs can strain relationships with family and friends, leading to feelings of isolation, frustration, and reduced overall life satisfaction.

Healthcare and Financial Burden:

Managing musculoskeletal disorders requires ongoing healthcare, medications, physical therapy, and potentially surgical interventions. The cost of treatment, especially for those without adequate healthcare coverage, can impose a significant financial burden on veterans and their families.

Reduced Quality of Life:

The physical, emotional, and social challenges of musculoskeletal disorders can drastically reduce veterans' overall quality of life. Pain, limited mobility, and associated mental health issues can lead to a diminished sense of fulfillment and happiness in their post-military lives.

Comprehensive Care and Support:

Addressing these challenges necessitates a holistic approach integrating medical care, rehabilitation, mental health support, community engagement, and accessible resources. A comprehensive approach is essential, which should encompass timely medical evaluations, specialized care from orthopedic specialists and physiotherapists, mental health support, and tailored rehabilitation programs. 

Providing comprehensive healthcare services with veteran-centric healthcare services and education on preventive measures that foster a supportive environment is essential to improving the lives of military veterans affected by musculoskeletal disorders.

All in all, musculoskeletal disorders are a significant health concern affecting post-military populations, with their origins rooted in the physical demands and injuries sustained during military service. Acknowledging the prevalence and impact of MSDs is crucial for developing tailored healthcare programs and support systems to enhance the quality of life for our veterans. By prioritizing comprehensive care, we can mitigate the challenges associated with musculoskeletal disorders and help our veterans lead fulfilling and healthy lives beyond their military service.