The human spine is a complex network of bones, discs, and nerves that work together to keep the body healthy. In fact, the spinal column serves so many functions that it is often referred to as the “hidden brain.” A spinal injury can impair your mobility, cause loss of bladder or bowel control, or even cause certain neurological disorders. However, if you spend your days working in an office, you may believe that spinal cord injuries at work are limited to factory or construction workers.
Working with heavy machinery, lifting heavy objects and sports injuries are all cause spinal cord injuries. The risk of acute or complete spinal cord injury, on the other hand, is a real danger for any worker. This includes office workers who do not perform manual labor. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to reduce your risk of spinal damage at work. By reducing stress on your body and increasing physical activity throughout the day, you can protect your back from spinal injuries at work.
Plan your work and know your limits.
It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget to use caution when lifting heavy objects or climbing scaffolding, but it’s critical to plan ahead of time and understand your limitations. Before beginning any new task, think about how you will approach it and whether there are any ways you can make the job safer for yourself. If your workplace has a manual for lifting heavy objects, carefully read and follow the instructions.
If you have a pre-existing condition, such as an incomplete injury that could be aggravated, be sure to let your boss know and ask for assistance with these tasks. Inform your coworkers about your condition so they can help you avoid risks and be more cautious when assisting you with tasks.
Invest in Proper Tools and Equipment to Avoid Spinal Injury
Most spinal cord injuries can be avoided by investing in tools and equipment such as scaffolding and lifting belts. Nonetheless, it is critical to ensure that they are used correctly. To begin with, ensure that you are wearing the equipment correctly and that it fits properly. Wear the tool belt low on your hips, away from your abdomen and lower back. Wear the lifting belt snugly around your hips, below your abdomen, and above your knee.
Make Ergonomics a Priority
Whether you work in an office, on a construction site, or in another type of job, you should take steps to improve your work environment’s ergonomics. This can be as simple as purchasing adjustable furniture or rearranging your workspace to make it more comfortable and safe. If you work in an office, make sure the lighting is adequate and that the computer monitor is at a comfortable level and distance from your eyes. When lifting a box or other object, make sure it is on a stable, flat surface.
Don’t Lift Excessively Heavy Objects
Lifting excessively heavy objects can result in traumatic spinal cord injury, but with proper form and technique, this can be avoided. Lifting should be done with your back straight, knees bent, and the object close to your body. Standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, bend your knees to lower yourself to the object. Lift the object with one hand and your legs, keeping your back as straight as possible. When carrying the object, make sure to keep both hands close to your body. This will help you maintain your balance and reduce your chances of suffering an acute spinal cord injury.
Undergo Adequate Training
As an employee, you can reduce your risk of injury and inform your employer of ways to improve their safety procedures. If your employer provides health and safety training, take advantage of it and learn everything you can. If they do not, you should bring it up. This will show your employer that you care about workplace safety, and they will be more likely to make changes to improve workplace safety.
Participate in frequent physical activity.
Physical activity, whether at work or not, is an important part of staying healthy and can help prevent many types of injuries. It accomplishes this by increasing strength, blood flow, posture, and other factors. Working out can also help you maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of developing acute or complete spinal cord injuries. While exercising is an excellent way to stay physically active and meet your daily activity requirements, be careful not to overdo it. You don’t want to be exhausted or have shortness of breath at work.
Take frequent breaks.
This one is crucial. Take a break when you start to feel overly tired or stressed. You are more likely to sustain an injury if you are tired and have tense muscles. Many of these injuries can be avoided by taking short daily breaks. Most experts recommend taking a five-minute break every hour and doing something that increases your heart rate.
Take frequent breaks from your desk job to get up and move around. If you’re a corporate or taxi driver, get out of the car to stretch your legs in between rides. This can go a long way toward preventing motor vehicle accidents. Continue to wait until you are calm before returning to work throughout the day. This will help you remain relaxed and avoid overworking yourself.
Contact New York Spine Specialist for Spinal Care and Treatment
Working in an office or on a construction site exposes you to heavy objects, repetitive movements, and other hazards that may increase your risk of spinal injuries. While there is no way to completely avoid accidents and injuries, you can reduce your risk of injury by following the tips listed above.
However, if your back pain is severe and interfering with your daily life, you should consult a New York Spine Specialist who specializes in treating spinal problems. Our Spine specialists have education and training in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with chronic back pain caused by trauma, degenerative joint disease, such as arthritis, or other factors. Contact us today at (516) 355-0111 or request an appointment.