Whether you work in an office or on the floor of a manufacturing facility, all employees are at risk of occupational injuries. When you consider workplace injuries, you may immediately have visions of falling from high places or getting caught in the heavy machinery. But not all injuries are quite that drastic, and many happen over longer periods of time. What you do, and how you go about doing what you do, can have long-term effects on your health. Your body may not show signs of trauma right away, but extended periods of strenuous activity may have negative consequences.
For example, consider how you sit at your desk while working. You probably sit in a standard office chair and look at your computer screen a great deal throughout the course of a typical day. Is that chair supporting the entire length of your spine, especially your lower back? At what angle is your computer monitor set? Do you find yourself constantly having to position your neck up or down to view the screen? Can you comfortably reach everything on your desk without repeated stretching?
These questions will highlight the ergonomics of your workspace, particularly those that need adjustment. Perhaps you need to find a new desk chair that better supports your back. Perhaps you can rearrange your desk so that everything is within arm’s reach. Perhaps you can adjust the angle of your computer screen so it’s at eye level. All of these things will reduce fatigue and alleviate any repetitive motions that may cause long-term damage to your body.
But what if you work a more active job? What if you spend your days moving, lifting, carrying, climbing, or such other strenuous activity? Then you are even more at risk for a potentially serious injury. The important thing to remember is not to push your body beyond its limitations. Practice safe lifting techniques, don’t try to carry more than you can handle, and be especially careful around high places and heavy machinery.
No matter how much we might try to minimize the impact on our bodies, we tend to fall out of alignment anyway. After all, a body in use needs a tune up now and then. Consult your physician for more tips on how to protect yourself in the workplace, and consider making an appointment with your local chiropractor or here with us at DiBella Chiropractic Center. Correcting the alignment of your spine will ensure less pain and a greater quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
