[Musculoskeletal disorders as causes of sick leave and disability benefits]

Musculoskeletal disorders make up a heterogeneous group. Our aim was to describe the variation in social insurance benefits for the most prevalent disorders within this group.

The study was based on the Norwegian labour and welfare administration's registers on sickness benefits and disability benefits.

Of the musculoskeletal disorders, low back conditions are the most frequent causes of sick leave and disability benefits, and account for 11 and 9% respectively. Neck and shoulder disorders are also common causes of sick leave, while osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia are common causes of disability benefits and each account for 5% of all new cases.

The labour and welfare administration should continue to focus on musculoskeletal disorders to prevent long-term sick leave and permanent absence from work.