What is Ergonomics?
Ergonomics is the study of the kind of work you do, which includes the environment you work in and the tools used to perform your daily job. The goal of ergonomics is to properly set up your work space so that it fits the biomechanics of your body and the job you are performing. When your workstation is set up right, you may:
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Be less likely to have problems such as headaches or eyestrain
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Reduce neck and back pain
Why would a person want a work area to be ergonomic?
It's not uncommon that injuries occur in the work environment. This can in turn cost you and your employer both time and money. In addition, injuries can affect how well you do your job. Ergonomics can help you be comfortable in your own work environment. It can also help lower stress and injury caused by awkward positions and repetitive tasks.
What kinds of injuries happen at work?
Most injuries that take place at work are generally caused by some form of physical stress and/or strain. An example of this is sitting in the same position for a long time, or making repetitive movements. Symptoms can include pain in your:
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Back
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Hand, wrist, or arms
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Neck and shoulders
Injuries can cause long-term health problems. And they use up your sick time.
How can you prevent injuries at work?
Check out our resources section below for information on proper workstation setup, daily injury prevention exercises & stretches, as well as information about our Work Kinetics program. If you’d like to set up a personalized workstation assessment, please print a downloadable copy of the prescription and follow the instructions located on the right hand side of this page, as this is a service covered by most insurance companies.
What can you do if you have a work-related injury?
There are several things you can do at home to help recover from your injury:
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Rest the painful area and avoid activities that make your pain worse
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Use ice to reduce pain and swelling
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Take over-the-counter medicines to relieve pain
Physical Therapy can also help assist you in returning to work quickly and effectively. Because your injury occurred in your work setting, it may be necessary to have a thorough evaluation of your work environment, to ensure that further injuries do not take place. If you would like to have your workspace evaluated, please download the prescription pad to the right, and follow the instructions provided.
Resources
Ergonomics
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Work Kinetics
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