The MSK system supports everything we do – literally! It provides form, support, stability and movement to our body and plays an important role in managing other chronic conditions, like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, through physical activity. That being said, when your MSK system is injured or in pain, your ability to work and play are severely compromised. Did you know that MSK conditions are among the leading cause of work-related injury, disability and chronic pain in Canada. In Ontario alone, over 40% of all lost time compensation claims to the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) from 1996-2006 were due to MSK disorders
MSK conditions can have an impact on workers of all ages; however, some workers are at greater risk, including those who do repetitive tasks which can lead to overuse or even damage of tissues over time. According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, these are common MSK disorders that have been identified as having a profound impact on workers:
How Chiropractors Help Work-Related MSK Disorders
Chiropractors are experts in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of MSK disorders. Canadian chiropractors can effectively treat work-related MSK disorders getting Canadians back to work and family life. More importantly, chiropractors invest in prevention through patient education and developing exercise plans to keep workers from being reinjured. Conservative care offered by chiropractors, dependent on the injury and mechanism, may include joint manipulation and mobilization, soft tissue therapies, adjunct modalities, rehabilitation and individualized exercises and lifestyle advice.
Assessing Work Ergonomics
According to the International Ergonomics Association, ergonomics is “the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of interactions among humans and other elements of a system, and the profession that applies theory, principles, data and methods to design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system performance.”
In addition to managing workplace injuries, chiropractors can also provide advice about your workstation for proper ergonomics and make suggestions to help prevent further injury. No matter where you work, remaining attentive to your health, combined with your chiropractor’s expertise will help you avoid workplace injury.
Proper ergonomics combined with chiropractic treatment can be key to MSK health in the workplace and keeping a healthy, productive Canadian workforce.
References:
