You spend at least 40 hours per week at work. Depending upon your occupation, you likely spend a majority of your work day doing some type of repetitive motion. These repetitive motions could include typing at a desktop or operating machinery. In any case, too much of the same motion can cause stress to your muscular and skeletal system.
Musculoskeletal disorders affect multiple areas of the body and can cause severe pain, numbness, or discomfort. Disorders like carpal tunnel disorder, trigger finger, tendonitis, or even rotator cuff distress can become chronic issues for workers across multiple industries.
The Ergonomic Answer
Fortunately, you can reduce the severity of musculoskeletal injuries by giving your body a break from repetitive motions, and by practicing good body mechanics. This is where ergonomics comes in. Ergonomics is the study of people in the work environment. Thanks to ergonomics, we know that the body’s position can make a major difference in the reduction of musculoskeletal injuries.
Safe Workplaces
If you sit at a computer all day, taking time to stand up and stretch every hour is helpful in reducing strain that could result in carpal tunnel disorder. A standing desk is another way to beat discomfort that can come from sitting for hours on end. If you work with machinery, regular and consistent breaks are crucial to preventing injury caused by repetitive motion.
Take time to review your employer’s workplace safety recommendations and follow them! Your workplace should offer training for best practices to prevent musculoskeletal disorders, and you can ask questions if you have any. Finally, be sure to report any injury or symptoms as quickly as possible. Early intervention and treatment can keep chronic pain at bay.
If you have been injured at work, give the team at O’Brien Law a call. We have years of experience guiding injured employees through the litigation process. We can help you through this time. Fill out our online contact form today!
