KNEE KNOWLEDGE

The knee joint is one of the most important joints in the body and for many people, their jobs can require them to spend long hours on their knees. Unfortunately, this can cause serious long-term damage. In the UK alone, there are over 100,000 knee replacements annually.

According to a comprehensive study conducted by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), nearly 40% of these craftspeople experience frequent knee pain, because when working on their knees the pressure is on a small area. This often leads to persistent discomfort and severe injuries.

Data from the Bureau of Labour Statistics reveals that a significant portion of skilled workers — almost 20% — are forced to abandon their trades due to knee and back problems.

These injuries not only compromise the health and motivation of workers but also lead to staggering economic losses. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons estimates that knee-related injuries contribute to a loss of billions annually in medical costs and decreased productivity, with an average of over 30 days of work missed per injury.

More and more work-related illness is caused by osteoarthritisof the knee. By 2025, knee osteoarthritis will be in the top 3 causes of work-related absenteeism. Many professional men and women achieve this already around the age of 40.

Increased risks

A study by the Universities of Sydney, Oxford and Southampton reveals that floor-layers, bricklayers, and carpenters have approximately 2.5 times higher odds to knee osteoarthritis compared to sedentary workers. Agricultural workers face up to a 64% increase in odds, while builders and construction workers experience a 63% increase.

Read more about this study.

Sources: NIOSH, Bureau of Labour Statistics, The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons