As we continue our Chiropractic Care Series, we are looking at Ergonomic Consultation – a practice in which we focus on the safe and effective interaction between people and their environment – a.k.a Ergonomics.
Essentially it is the science of matching the job to the worker and the product to the user. Most common facet of ergonomics involves the design of the office and it’s workstation, including the desk, computer and chair. However, ergonomics whether employees sit at a computer terminal, operate machinery, work in retail, or drive large trucks, they can benefit from the principles of ergonomics.
There are many benefits to Ergonomics and it is a practice made for everyone!. Within any workplace, pains and strains can happen at anytime. These injuries are primarily known as musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) or they are also referred to as repetitive strain injuries (RSIS); cumulative trauma disorders (CTDS) or repetitive motion injuries (RMIS). These types of injuries can affect your muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves. The most common injuries in workplace are those that develop as a result of the effect of repetitive, forceful or awkward movements on bones, joints, ligaments or other soft tissues – such as typing on a keyboard, cutting hair and driving. Symptoms of these types of injuries can include discomfort, pain, numbness, tingling, weakness or restricted movements. There is a strong link between exposure to work related risk factors for MSDs and the development of these disorders.
The good news! These injuries can be prevented by seeing a specialist and getting an ergonomic consultation. Ergonomics applies scientific theory, principle and methods to explore the relationship between the worker, job tasks and the workplace. Ergonomic information can be applied to help design appropriate physical and cognitive working environments.
Experience shows that workers who perform the job are the best source of information to help identify, assess and effectively control the risk of motion injuries in the workplace. When workers are involved in the process, they can often provide insight into the risks associated with their work - and they often have good ideas about effective risk controls.
Consultation can provide assistance in involving the workforce in decision-making that affects their work activities. This encourages workers to "buy into" the process, making the strategy more likely to succeed!
If you are interested in an Ergonomic Consultation for yourself or for your business and employees, contact our office today!
