Repetetive Strains

Written By Andy Boulton

Your health at work and driving

Are you fit for work? Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions (problems with the muscles, bones, joints and associated tissues) are a major contributing factor to workplace absenteeism. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports that 30.8 million working days are lost each year due to MSK issues such as back, neck and upper limb pain in the UK alone. Habitual poor posture can contribute to daily aches and discomfort in the workplace and beyond. Whether you work at a desk or have a more manual occupation, your job may expose you to stresses and strains that can cause you pain.

Common causes of strain in the workplace can include:

  • Overstretching

  • Prolonged sitting at a desk

  • Driving long distances

  • Awkward lifting and carrying

  • Bending

  • Extended periods of repetitive motion

  • Using a computer without taking breaks.

These can lead to various aches and pains and other common MSK conditions such as sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow. Furthermore, workplace stress can increase the amount of pain you feel by causing muscle tension and spasms. You can discuss with your osteopath the impact that work may have on your body and agree on an appropriate course of action that may help. Along with hands-on osteopathic treatment, your osteopath may also offer advice on posture, lifting and workplace ergonomics.

How can an Osteopath help?

Osteopathic care is based on the individual needs of the patient and so varies depending on your age, fitness levels and diagnosis. Osteopaths use a wide range of gentle hands-on techniques that focus on releasing tension, stretching muscles and improving mobility. This is often used together with exercise and helpful advice designed to relieve pain and aid you in your recovery, allowing you to return to work as soon as you are able. Your osteopath can provide you with a fit note if you do need to take time off from work. You do not need to consult your GP before you visit an osteopath, although you may wish to do so.

Therapies:
Osteopathy
Medical Acupuncture
Sports Injury Therapy
Traditional Acupuncture
Laser Therapy

Andy Boulton
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