Preventing Musculoskeletal Injury: Security Forces Occupational Wellness and Improvements

Abstract

United States Air Force Security Forces members face unique hazards associated with law enforcement and security duties similar to civilian law enforcement agencies. They also balance combat training requirements and rigorous physical conditioning that creates a high propensity for musculoskeletal injuries. The literature shows that awareness and education of contributing hazards can reduce the rate of injury among at-risk populations. This study explored the experience of Security Forces (SF) veterans to understand how actions on the job, training, and other key factors significantly contributed to their musculoskeletal injuries and chronic conditions. The research employed a phenomenological qualitative method to understand the workplace implications that may contribute to SF injury. We interviewed ten Security Forces veterans, five male and five female, to gain their insights and perspectives on their injuries and preventative measures that took place. The results showed a high rate of injury occurring on the job and a low rate of prevention. Participants described how their injuries were compounded by organizational culture and the hesitance to seek care options based on an underlying stigma. We introduce three considerations for practice to improve the musculoskeletal injury incidence rate among Security Forces: (1) developing a law enforcement-centric educational awareness program that places emphasis on physical conditioning, flexibility, and endurance to withstand occupational duties, (2) focusing on building core strength to reduce lower back and correlating injuries, (3) apply a top-down approach to remove negative stigma with seeking medical treatment for injuries.