Occupational injuries account for millions of working days lost in Britain every year. No matter whether your work is in the office or outside you need to be able to cope with the demands put on your body by the type of work that you do.
Manual work carries the inherent risk of injury caused by heavy and often awkward lifting, over stretching, and often periods of prolonged bending causing back and disc injuries, sciatica and muscle strains.
In the office where computer use is common, there are dangers of developing bad posture, which lead to headaches, neck and back problems, tiredness, repetitive strain injuries and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Those who drive for a living need to be aware of their driving position, as it affects not only their neck, back and shoulders, but also their hips, knees and feet.
When you are sitting for long periods of time, you tend to lean forwards, slump, and develop a bad posture. This affects you in many detrimental ways.
The muscles at the front of the neck shorten, the muscles at the back and sides of the neck tighten and lift, the nerves and blood vessels become compressed and the nerve/blood supply to the arm is diminished. This is very common with computer users, many who have very poor work station arrangements.
The diaphragm, the muscle that divides your chest and abdomen, does not move as well as it should, breathing and digestion are affected. This can lead to tiredness and digestive problems.
It is important to take breaks, move around and breath properly, allowing your diaphragm to move normally.
For the Employee.
Going to see an Osteopath demonstrates to your boss that you are taking an active role in trying to improve your health and reduce your risk of injury. An Osteopath will help you look at the style of work that you do and help you find ways of improving the situation and how to help prevent a recurrence of your injuries. You will be given treatment and offered advice on posture and lifting.
For the Employer.
Osteopathic treatment will usually help to resolve work related injuries earlier so that your workforce is more efficient and productive and it will time off through ill health. Some companies already benefit from using an Osteopath as part of their care program for employees, thereby improving company morale.
Useful Tips.
- Take frequent short breaks away from the desk and computer to help avoid back, neck and eye strain.
- Make sure if you are driving that you take time to stop, get out of your vehicle, walk around, stretch and do some exercises for a few minutes every hour or so.
- When lifting at work, judge whether you manage the load or if you need help. Never be afraid to ask for assistance.
