All too often when a problem or issue arises, we seek out the quickest and simplest solution to address it, or alternatively we ignore the problem all together (but that is a whole other post)!
A quick fix is a problem solving technique, which involves utilising the fastest solution to keep the problem from recurring in the near future. Key words here – “recurring in the near future”. The problem with the quick fix is that it is temporary, and does nothing to eliminate the problem in the long run and therefore the problem will quickly re-emerge. These quick fixes are what I refer to as band aid solutions. Meaning they cover up the symptoms, but do little to mitigate the underlying problem itself.
Unfortunately, I see this band aid approach used all too often by clients trying to manage pain whilst working. People will seek out a quick fix for their symptoms, get temporary relief, only to hours (or if you are really lucky) days later have the same symptom return at the same level it was before or worse. Yet, people just keep using these band aid solutions and remain stuck in the vicious cycle which is pain. And let’s not even go into what this is costing them…
What needs to change you ask? Well, it means saying goodbye to the quick fix and finding a sustainable, long term solution and this means not relying on ant-inflammatory medications or visiting your physio, chiro, osteo, masseuse every other week. I am not saying these treatments do not have a place, they definitely do, but are they going to give you a solution for the long term? When it comes to tackling pain whilst working, the underlying cause (or causes) needs to be identified and more importantly addressed. Unfortunately, these other solutions deal merely in treating the symptoms and that’s where the change needs to occur.
Once the cause has been determined, a multi-faceted strategy needs to be implemented to help you to change the way you work. This involves first and foremost, behavioural change. There must be a commitment to changing unhealthy work behaviours and action taken to combat these. You can’t just buy a piece of equipment and expect things will miraculously change (that’s the old quick fix way of thinking). There needs to be a behavioural shift. Once this starts happening, you will be well on your way to taking back control and changing your experience of pain whilst working. Then the other key elements of postural awareness, working smart for health strategies and workstation set-up can be implemented, which all work hand in hand with behavioural change. Without behavioural change you are just setting yourself up for failure.
So, the question I leave you with is this: Is it time for YOU to rip off the band aid and find a sustainable solution for your pain whilst working?
Here’s to your Work Health Wellness.
Cheers, Cath
P.S. If you haven’t already got your FREE copy of the How to Manage Your Pain at Work Checklist, you can get yours here.
P.P.S. You are ready to rip off the band aid - Good for you! You know we need to talk then. Click here to get your FREE 20 minute consult.