The workplace backache epidemic
Technology is making us work more; or if not work, say, devote more time with gadgets than with family members or friends.
And no one has told or taught us that the fabulously looking gadget (the desktop computer, the laptop or the mobile phone) can cause insidious harm.
The backache epidemic is on….what with about 70% of neck pain is attributed to gadget use.
Poor posture is one. Working with laptop on the sofa or the bed is very common and if this is done for long hours without breaks is bound to give rise to backache. Avoid working this way for more than 15 minutes, and if you have to, take break for atleast 5 minutes every 15 minutes.
Working with desktop in the office also contributes and most employers are unawares of this. An ergonomic assessment is important as this will allow to make adjustments for safe work. The chair, the monitor, the keyboard, the mouse…everything needs to be assessed in relation to the user. Posture assessment is very important as is the being aware of taking frequent breaks.
How to prevent workplace backache:
- Get your posture right by doing an assessment – there are many ways to get an assessment done. The author prefers an online assessment where the computer then generates the risk profile.
- Use the right chair, monitor, keyboard and mouse….and this can be assessed by various methods, including online assessment.
- Do not lift weights more than 20 kilograms alone. Ask for help.
- Take frequent breaks
- View a distant object during the breaks
Take help of an expert in dealing with purchase of gadgets and their setup for use.
Written by: Dr. Ajay Sati.
