This report is a review of the international definitions for musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs).

When discussing WRMSDs a clear definition provides a consistent foundation for developing interventions and measuring impact.

This report outlines the definition review process and how we came to define WRMSDs. It presents our preferred definition recommended for use in New Zealand.

For our one-page MSDs and WRMSDs definitions see: Definitions: Musculoskeletal disorders and work-related musculoskeletal disorders