In today’s fast-paced working environments, employee wellbeing is more than a buzzword, it’s essential. In the UK, musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions contribute significantly to sickness absence, alongside mental health issues. MSK problems account for a substantial number of lost working days annually, with studies showing over 9.5 million days lost each year due to MSK conditions affecting over 10 million people.

One highly effective solution is workplace physiotherapy. By addressing common issues such as work-related musculoskeletal aches and pains, physiotherapy services delivered at work can significantly boost employee health, satisfaction, and productivity. 

What Is Workplace Physiotherapy? 

Workplace physiotherapy is a proactive approach to employee health that integrates physiotherapy services into your wellbeing strategy. IPRS Health’s UK-wide network provides both in-person and virtual physiotherapy, ensuring that employees have access to high-quality care no matter where they are located. 

All our physiotherapy services begin with a comprehensive digital or telephone assessment, which helps us understand each individual’s treatment needs. Based on this assessment, we recommend the most appropriate course of action, whether that's virtual physiotherapy sessions or in-person treatment. This tailored approach addresses physical health issues early, helping to prevent the development of persistent symptoms, improving employee wellbeing, and enhancing productivity. 

The Link Between Musculoskeletal Health and Productivity 

Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are a leading cause of work-related ill health in the UK. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in 2023/24, 543,000 workers suffered from work-related musculoskeletal disorders. These conditions accounted for 7.8 million lost working days — nearly 32% of all work-related ill health (Source: HSE, Work-related ill health statistics 2024). 

In 2024, IPRS Health saved our clients over 140,000 working days which would have otherwise been lost to absence. 

Key Benefits of Workplace Physiotherapy 

1. Reduces Absenteeism and Presenteeism 

Fast access to physiotherapy offers significant benefits for employees and employers during a return-to-work process, including faster recovery, reduced risk of re-injury, and improved long-term health and productivity. 

In 2024, 96% of employees who accessed workplace physiotherapy through IPRS Health were able to return to work.  

2. Improves Staff Morale and Retention 

A proactive approach to employee health boosts morale and retention. According to CIPD’s Health and Wellbeing at Work report, 78% of organisations with a health and wellbeing strategy reported better employee morale and engagement (Source: CIPD, Health and Wellbeing at Work Survey Report, 2023). 

3. Support Proactive Approach to Health 

Early intervention is a cost-effective strategy for preventing musculoskeletal problems from escalating into long-term issues. Providing employees with access to physiotherapy soon after the onset of pain not only improves their recovery but also reduces future costs for businesses.  

Research published in BMC Health Services Research shows that individuals who receive physiotherapy within two weeks of experiencing low back pain have lower long-term healthcare costs and reduced work absenteeism. This proactive approach can save businesses money by addressing issues before they require more expensive treatments or extended time off (Source- BMC Health Services Research – Early Physiotherapy and Cost-Effectiveness.) 

Making Physiotherapy Part of Your Wellbeing Strategy 

Whether you're in a physically demanding sector like manufacturing, logistics, or healthcare or an office-based business where employees sit for long periods, workplace physiotherapy services can make a measurable difference. 

The HSE reports that the highest rates of MSK disorders are found in construction, transport and storage, and administrative and support service activities (Source: HSE, Work-related ill health statistics, 2024) 

Adding physiotherapy to your wider employee wellbeing programme doesn’t have to be complex. Services can be delivered flexibly, either face-to-face at a local practice workplace or through virtual physiotherapy. Services may consist of a self-referral from an employee or as part of a management referral. The key is accessibility and early intervention. 

Final Thoughts 

Workplace physiotherapy is not just a perk; it’s a smart investment in your people and your business. From injury prevention, education and behavioural change to improving morale and reducing absenteeism. It plays a crucial role in building a resilient, healthy workforce.