Ergonomics is all about fitting the task to the man. It is a science concerned with human factors and in the context of a workplace, is intended to maximise productivity levels through eliminating an individual’s discomfort and fatigue.
Where there is a mismatch between an individual, their environment and the task they are performing, musculoskeletal disorders (aka ergonomic injuries) are often the result. The risk factors for such injuries in an office based environment include: most significantly awkward, static or sustained postures or positions; contact pressure; and forceful strain or exertion. These factors over time can contribute to pain, injury and disability.
Do any of the following symptoms sound familiar to you?
- Pain or discomfort in the neck, shoulders, upper or lower back
- Discomfort when making particular movements
- Pain in the fingers, wrists, forearms, elbows or other body parts which could be described as an ache, sharp stabbing or burning sensation
- Feelings of muscle tightness, cramping or discomfort (ie. hips)
- Joint stiffness, swelling or inflammation
- Loss of joint range of movement
- Weakness or loss of muscle function
- Lack of coordination and clumsiness
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Headaches or eyestrain
These are just some of the signs and symptoms of a work-related musculoskeletal disorder. For many of you, these symptoms may have become the norm. You have been experiencing these symptoms for so long, even at a low level that you have learned to live with them and just get on with it. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Call it pain, discomfort, soreness, stiffness, aching, a niggle or whatever else you might want to label it - the bottom line is that YOU should NOT be experiencing any of these things at work!
The solution: A sound ergonomic workstation set-up which is tailored to your individual needs, commitment to behavioural change, good postural habits and implementation of active work strategies.
Want to know more? Download my FREE Pain Free Matrix by following this link: https://occupationalfocus.leadpages.net/painfreematrix-fb/
What are you doing to look after yourself today?
Image credit @apops