Today, it’s all about folks with active, physical jobs! Our plumbers and electricians, HVAC and construction workers, machinists, welders, custodians and even stylists—and thousands more VIPs we haven’t listed. While providing us important services (and even products!), these folks sometimes risk their health and well-being to make our lives better—but this all comes with a hefty price.
The Risks of Physical Labor
In 2015, out of all injuries in the workforce, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) like sprains, strains and tears from overexertion or lifting, accounted for nearly 31 percent of all injured workers. In second place were falls, slips and trips at about 27 percent. Folks in labor-intensive, physical jobs are more likely to experience these incidents due to these common factors:
Repetitive motion: Doing the same motions over and over
Awkward positions: Unnatural positions held for longer periods of time
Forceful exertions: Physical effort required to perform a task or maintain control of equipment or tools
Contact stress: Pressing the body against a hard or sharp edge, resulting in pressure on nerves, tendons and blood vessels
Vibration: Operating vibrating tools at work, such as vacuums, lawn mowers, saws and large machinery that leads to nerve damage
Preventing Injuries in the Workplace
To avoid putting yourself at risk for MSDs, here are some tips for moving around the workplace:
During repetitive motions, keep the body in a mechanically ideal position
When lifting heavy objects, bend at the knees and keep the back straight, lifting with your legs and holding the object close to your body
When lifting or moving materials, always avoid twisting the body
Take breaks throughout the day—especially for careers with frequent repetitive movement
Stretch frequently to loosen ligaments and muscles and prevent wear and tear
Pay attention to your posture—avoid keeping the head too far forward or hunching the shoulders or back
Chiropractic Care: A Long-Term Solution
While trying to prevent wear and tear on your musculoskeletal system is a good first step toward maintaining health, it’s likely not enough. For those at such a high risk of MSDs, chiropractic is a must for preventing and healing wear and tear on the body.
Through gentle chiropractic adjustments and individualized therapies, chiropractic care can get you out of pain and extend your working years. Don’t wait until pain is part of your everyday life—and if you’re already in pain, don’t live with it a moment longer.
