The Silent Epidemic in Employee Health
Musculoskeletal (MSK) issues have become a widespread crisis affecting nearly 1 in 2 adults during their lifetime. This “silent epidemic” isn’t just for athletes or the elderly—lack of mobility impacts everyone, often without them realizing it:
- 50 million U.S. adults experience daily physical pain
- 75% lack regular physical activity
- Physical inactivity doubles the risk of many serious medical conditions
The Staggering Price of Mobility Issues
The financial impact is overwhelming, with mobility issues costing the U.S. healthcare system an estimated $381 billion annually. For employers, this translates to mobility issues being the top healthcare cost driver, with 22% of employee medical care spend attributed to physical inactivity. Companies also face significant productivity losses through absenteeism and reduced productivity while working in pain, along with rising disability costs that affect both individuals and employers.
Who’s at Risk? Everyone.
- Office employees
- Remote employees
- Any professional sitting 8+ hours daily
- Athletes
- Individuals with chronic conditions like arthritis or diabetes
- Aging adults
Why Virtual MSK Care Is the Solution
- Convenient, Accessible Care
Employees can connect with healthcare professionals—from physical therapists to orthopedic specialists—within minutes, allowing them to keep their regular work schedule and avoid travel to appointments. This immediate access helps them address pain or discomfort before it turns into a more serious issue.
- Early Intervention Prevents Serious Issues
Virtual mobility care allows for proactive treatment before minor discomfort becomes a major problem. These solutions focus not only on treating existing pain but also help prevent injuries by offering ergonomics assessments, stretching exercises, and personalized advice. Developing these habits early is key to supporting long-term musculoskeletal health.
- Reducing Absenteeism and Presenteeism
Employees suffering from mobility pain are often less productive at work, a challenge known as presenteeism that can be just as costly as absenteeism. Virtual MSK services allow employees to get care without missing work, addressing pain before it interferes with productivity. With the convenience of virtual care, employees can schedule appointments during breaks or after work hours, minimizing disruption to their workday.
- Cost-Effectiveness for Employers
Virtual MSK solutions offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional in-person care without the expensive overhead of physical clinics. By addressing mobility issues early, businesses can reduce long-term healthcare costs and prevent workers’ compensation claims and minimize downtime. Plus, companies implementing MSK care programs have seen a 35% reduction in healthcare costs related to mobility issues, a return of $5.81 in productivity gains for every $1 spent on wellness, and healthcare cost savings up to $2,472 per member.
- Scalability for a Diverse Workforce
Virtual care solutions are scalable to meet the needs of workforces of any size. Companies can offer virtual MSK care as part of a broader employee benefits package, ensuring that every employee—regardless of location—has access to the care they need.
Innovative Virtual MSK Solutions
Health Joy Virtual MSK: Health Joy offers affordable, per-family virtual consultations that provide convenient and accessible care. Members can quickly connect with healthcare professionals for personalized support, making mobility health management easier than ever.
Sword Health: Sword Health delivers comprehensive digital physical therapy from the comfort of home, with an impressive catalog of resources and track record of results. Their programs have helped 62% of members become pain-free through AI-powered, personalized care that can reduce healthcare costs by up to $2,472 per member.
The Bottom Line: Virtual MSK Care is a Game-Changer for Employers
As remote and hybrid work models continue to expand, providing employees with access to virtual MSK services is no longer just an option—it’s a strategic necessity. By offering these services, you’re not only empowering employees to take control of their health, reducing employee pain and injuries, and improving their performance but you’re also protecting your company’s financial well-being.
Want to learn more about how virtual MSK care can enhance your employee benefits? Contact us today to discuss how we can integrate these services into your workplace wellness program and start improving employee health and productivity today!
