Work Place Ergonomics

Work Place Ergonomics

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration has guidelines in place to reduce musculoskeletal disorders (or MSDs) in the workplace, including injuries to the joints, ligaments, and other structures that support your neck, back, and limbs.

But truthfully, how many of us really think about ergonomics at work? Chances are, you won't spend much time dwelling on that momentary pain, muscle tension, strains or fatigue that can eventually lead to long-term injury.

Here at Diamond State Chiropractic — serving the Newark, Delaware area — we often see patients after they've sustained an injury on the job. While they're here, they learn what makes us different and how we can help patients recover from a work injury quickly.

Ergonomics — a Definition

Ergonomics can simply be defined as the design of the workplace to prevent MSDs. OSHA thinks of it as "fitting the job to the worker" and not the other way around. That's why you'll often see office furniture and items with the word 'ergonomic' attached, such as an ergonomic chair, desk, keyboard, mouse, or workstation.

Ergonomics means avoiding awkward posture, overuse of limbs, repetition of movements, and more. The most frequently affected areas of the body are the back and arms.

Think About Workplace Ergonomics and Avoid Injury

Our chiropractors can assess your body mechanics and posture to determine if poor ergonomics have contributed to your pain and discomfort. Then, we can use a noninvasive treatment such as chiropractic adjustment or massage to help relieve your pain and address risk factors for when you return to work.

Among the tips we offer patients are:

• Change positions or get up and walk periodically throughout the day
• Use a standing desk or document stand to position your work in front of you, reducing neck strain and bending forward to type.
• Keep your keyboard at elbow height and your wrists straight, or use an adjustable keyboard tray.

Talk to Your Chiropractor About Workplace Ergonomics

Diamond State Chiropractic will also discuss corrective exercises, lifestyle counseling and more during work injury treatment. To learn more about our services, call us today at 302-828-0051.