Ergonomic injuries are coined with the technical terms: musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) or repetitive strain injuries (RSIs). These types of injuries are a result of overuse of muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues of the body. Ergonomic injuries are likely to involve poor design, unideal arrangement of workspaces, and improper or insufficient tools to help match the work demands to human capabilities.
Ergonomic injury types are in nature a bit of a mystery as they tend to have a long term onset after repeated overuse. Inflammation is typically the root cause of these injuries such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), one of the more prevalent ergonomic related injury. This condition affects the wrist and hand as a result of the compression of the median nerve due to repetitive hand and wrist motions. Such motions can be prolonged keyboard or mouse use without ideal mechanics and posture.
Repetitive motions without sufficient break cycles can lead to tendonitis which is the inflammation of tendons which connect muscle to bone. If you think of the tasks performed by assembly line workers or desk workers that continuous use a mouse without taking breaks are prone to tendonitis in parts of their body such as the elbow, shoulder, or wrist. Poor postures combined with repetitive or forceful movements can have an exponentially compounded effect towards the contribution to the underlying causes of inflammation and disease.
Lower back pain is very common and can be attributed to prolonged sitting in chairs that lack adjustability and support of the curvature of the back. Maintaining an awkward posture during sedentary work as well as performing jobs that requires heavy lifting or frequent bending can also be related to the cause of a back injury.
Neck and shoulder pain is typically seen in prolonged awkward postures especially torsion and lateral flexion. We see this in jobs requiring frequent phone use to which the worker spends extended periods of time tilting the head or has a computer with multiple screens (especially widescreens). Addressing these issues requires a look at the fit of a workstation and employing the best-known ergonomic practices.
Where to look for help?
If you are looking to drive down workplace ergonomic injuries through the design of work environments that promote proper posture and mechanics. One that provides sufficient ergonomic tools and equipment it is important to consult a specialist in the field. If you or your business is in a need of ergonomic consultation? Call ERGOBILITY today!
