Which of the following statements is true regarding musculoskeletal disorders (MSD)?

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) refer to a range of conditions that affect the muscles, bones, and joints. The accurate statement regarding MSDs is that they can indeed be caused by slips, trips, and falls. When individuals experience slips or trips, the sudden disturbance in balance can lead to awkward positions or impacts that strain muscles, ligaments, or joints, often resulting in pain or injury associated with MSDs.

It's important to understand that while slips, trips, and falls can lead to acute injuries, they may also contribute to developing chronic conditions if repetitive or sustained stress occurs in the musculoskeletal system.

The other statements do not align with the characteristics of MSDs. Falling off a ladder, while an injury, is more of an acute trauma rather than a typified musculoskeletal disorder. MSDs are typically not defined by the initial impact force but rather by the cumulative effects of repetitive strain, poor posture, and ergonomic risks over time. Additionally, although aging can contribute to the risk factors associated with MSDs, these disorders can affect individuals of all ages, not exclusively linked to aging. Therefore, acknowledgment of various risk factors, including slips, trips, and falls, provides a more comprehensive understanding of MSDs.