Sprain or Strain in the Neck, Back or Wrist? How to Eliminate Discomfort and Optimize Prevention

In the twenty first century, technology is utilized by over 90% of the work force. Multiple hours every day is required for many at a desk in front of a computer, laptop or other electronic devices. Loss of income, decreased work performance due to sprain and strains in back neck and wrist have proven to be a great contributory factor. Symptoms can include muscle pain and spasms in neck, shoulders with possible tingling and numbness in arm from extended periods of phone use. Positioning is a key component to many disorders. Making the work space fit your postural alignment and not your body fit whatever work space present is one of the key components to health and wellbeing.

Occupational injury and illness incidents in health care and social assistance have been known to account for 1 out of 5 incidents in the private industry. Improve your posture and prevent the pain and strain of all day working with these simple tips that can be applied immediately. Education on the movements that can cause discomfort or pain and recommended strategies to use can prevent further issues from arising and relieving some present symptoms. There are adaptations for work environments and personal work space as well as equipment to complete tasks and not lose efficiency. The key component is safety. The goal is to maintain efficiency and prevent injury from developing when long periods of repetitive type movements have to be performed. By implementing simple techniques with education, fewer complaints can be the result.

This course is for all who work in the work place and invest hours in front of a computing device or manage people who is required to function in front of a device.

This session will look at the following:

1. Causes of strain and sprain in the neck, back or wrist in the work place
2. Results of these causes when not addressed
3. Prevention of these causes by ergonomic and postural intervention
4. Ways to address some present sprains and strains with everyday adaptive devices and techniques

www.bls.gov/iif/oshcdnew.htm for statistics Journal of American Occupational Therapy Association: Living Life to the Fullest: Using Smartphones Wisely: 2002; 2011. Click here

Medicalnews.com March 30th, 2011Click here

		Muriel Ojo Helping Hands Therapeutic Services View Profile