| Your Office Doesn’t Have to Be a Pain in the Neck | |
by
Anita Evans, from the June 2003 newsletter
Does working in your office, whether at home or at work, cause you pain in your neck, back, arms or hands? Most people do not have their office workspace set up to avoid strain and injury. As a result, intensive computer use makes workers naturally more prone to conditions such as upper or lower back pain, tendonitis, Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, Trigger Finger and Sciatica. In addition, research is showing that kids who spend a lot of time on computers are also at risk, just like their adult counterparts.
According to the Department of Labor’s Office of Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), America’s employers report that nearly two million employees suffer from musculoskeletal disorders each year, and a significant portion of these conditions come from computer jobs.
In addition, OSHA reports that musculoskeletal disorders can be prevented if the workspace is fitted properly to the user. Proper positioning and posture are key elements. So, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to redesign your office space in order to provide relief.
“Pacing your activity to include short, frequent breaks,” is also vital according to Steve Geringer, MD, professor of the department of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. “Short, frequent breaks such as standing for about 30 seconds every 20 or 30 minutes provides a necessary break for your muscles. These breaks revitalize your muscles with the oxygen necessary to function efficiently.”
Adjustments you can make to your workspace include:
Although obtaining “ergonomic” office equipment is a good start, merely having the proper items is not enough. The workspace must be fitted to the individual user/s. Occupational therapists are trained professionals who can fit the workplace to the worker whether it be in an industrial or office setting. Contact an occupational therapist if you would like more information about rearranging your workspace and preventing musculoskeletal disorders.
Anita Evans is an occupational therapist at Latah Therapy Works Occupational Therapy Department, and she invites inquiries about workspace ergonomics at 882-1570.
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