Eliminating
Repetitive Strain Injuries in the Workplace
In the case of repetitive
strain injuries, the prime source of injury
is continuous repetitive and/or static flexion
of the fingers and hands in a unidirectional
(one way) motion. ( i.e. Mouse
use, typing, writing, gripping work tools,
etc.) Other components, such as applied force,
fixed body position, and the pace of work requiring
repetitive or long-term static movements are
also contributing factors in becoming afflicted
with a disabling repetitive strain injury.
Therefore the main effort
to protect workers from repetitive strain such
as carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger,
cubital tunnel syndrome, guyon's syndrome and
other injuries should focus on limiting or "counteracting" repetitive
and static flexion activities that require
constant overuse of the flexor muscles of the
hand and forearm. If left unchecked, repetitive
pr long-term static finger and wrist flexion
eventually leads to muscle imbalance and the
onset of one of the many debilitating repetitive
strain injuries listed above.
Protection against repetitive
strain injuries can be achieved through the
implementation of workplace protocols that
involve the following:
- Job/task rotation: Alternating tasks each
hour.
- Individual-specific
ergonomic work stations: Fit the workstation to the worker, not the
worker to the workstation.
- Quick
Breaks: Take a short
2-3 minute break every 30-minutes.
- Stretching
program: During
the short 2-3 minute break, perform stretches.
- Exercise
program: Follow-up
the stretches with a few exercises
to increase circulation, increasing
blood oxygen levels in the muscles.
Implementing the workplace
protocols listed above is extremely important
in maintaining structural integrity and muscle
balance of the entire upper extremity. ( i.e. Fingers,
hands, wrists, forearms, elbows, upper arms,
and shoulder.)
If you are beginning to suffer
from a repetitive strain injury at work, be
sure to consult your company's employee health
director for assistance in establishing the
protocols listed above in order to keep the
injury from progressing any further. Remember
- prevention is a lot cheaper than rehabilitation,
both physically and financially!
Author: Jeff
Anliker, LMT, is a Therapist and Inventor
of Therapeutic Exercise Products that are
utilized by Corporations, Consumers and Medical
Facilities around the world for the prevention
and rehabilitation of repetitive strain
injuries. ergo-intervention.com
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