If you have ever had back, joint, or muscle pain, you know how much it can affect your quality of life and ability to do your job. Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain is very common and virtually everyone experiences it at some point in their lives. Preventing MSK injuries at work and at home includes a mix of healthy habits, proper body mechanics and ergonomic tools. To prevent MSK injuries, try to incorporate the following tips:
Practice good sitting posture: If you work at a desk frequently, sit in an upright chair that supports your spine. Sit with your knees level with or higher than, your hips. Keep your ears, shoulders, and hips in a vertical line. Try your best to stretch or walk around after 30 minutes of sitting.
Practice good standing posture: If you are standing or walking throughout the workday, maintain an upright posture by standing tall with your shoulders back. Put your weight mostly on the balls of your feet and wear cushioned shoes such as sneakers to support your feet and back.
Be cautious when lifting and carrying objects: If you are lifting or carrying objects throughout the workday, check the weight of the object before moving and only lift as much as you can handle comfortably. Bend your knees and keep your feet shoulder width apart as you lift – make your legs do the hard work, not your back!
If you have musculoskeletal pain that is persistent or is getting worse over time, talk to a healthcare provider. If you need help finding a doctor, our Find a Doctor tool can help.
The June Resources (ZIP) below includes materials that can be shared with your employees.
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