The aim of this thesis was to examine the role of work in the disability caused by MSD from various perspectives: primary prevention using lifting advice and devices, perception of work-relatedness, measurement of productivity loss, and secondary/tertiary prevention through ergonomic intervention or part-time sick leave. The original articles include a systematic review, two surveys, a randomised controlled trial, and a study protocol. The results support the early use of a biopsychosocial model for effective management of disability.