Understanding Ergonomics and its Role in Daily Life
Ergonomics encompasses the study and practice of improving how people move and function in their everyday lives. It focuses on maximizing efficiency and safety through the use of appropriate tools and body mechanics while identifying factors that may contribute to injuries. The term “ergonomics” originates from Greek and translates roughly to “fitting a job to the person.”
Our hand therapists in Fort Myers, FL are trained in ergonomics teaching to assist individuals with injury prevention and resolution. They analyze both the tools used in home or workplace settings (ranging from chairs and cars to computers and industry-specific machinery) as well as how these tools are utilized. Hand therapists assess whether these tools and the physical demands of your workplace or home responsibilities are suitable for you. If adjustments are needed, they can provide recommendations to ensure optimal physical suitability.
Importance of Ergonomics in the Workplace
Companies in the United States spend billions of dollars annually on occupational injuries, as highlighted by the Occupational Health & Safety Administration (OSHA). However, OSHA also emphasizes that implementing specific health and safety systems, including proper ergonomics training, can reduce injury and illness costs by up to 40%.
Common musculoskeletal injuries in the workplace include:
- Cervical strain and pain (including “text neck”)
- TMJ dysfunction and tension headaches
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (median nerve entrapment at the wrist)
- Tendonitis (inflammation in tendons)
- Rotator cuff strains and tears
- Medial or lateral epicondylitis (golfer’s or tennis elbow, respectively)
- Trigger finger
While it is impossible to completely eliminate the risk of these injuries, it is important to note that poor posture, excessive sedentary behavior, and improper workspace setup contribute to their occurrence.
Improving ergonomics at work significantly reduces the risk of sustaining an injury that could result in medical expenses, lost wages, and decreased productivity.
Beyond the Workplace: Ergonomics in Daily Life
Ergonomics extends beyond the workplace and is relevant to every aspect of daily life. Whether using a smartphone, driving, or engaging in sports, a healthy awareness of good ergonomics is essential to overall well-being.
What to Expect During an Ergonomics Evaluation with a Hand Therapist
Addressing the signs and symptoms of an injury alone may not prevent its recurrence unless the underlying factors are identified and addressed. This is why an ergonomics evaluation is crucial for both symptom resolution and injury prevention.
During an ergonomics evaluation at our hand therapy clinic, you can expect:
- Thorough evaluation of your body, medical history, and home or work environment
- Discussion about the setup of your desk or office, the tools and equipment you use, job expectations and demands, and a summary of your typical day
- Simulation or recreation of certain tasks or setups to gain a clearer understanding of your work environment and capacity
- Education on strategies to better manage your health in your specific environment, focusing on improving posture, energy efficiency, and body mechanics
- Recommendations for adjustments, modifications, and changes to reduce pain and prevent further injury, such as adjusting the position of your computer monitor or implementing regular rest breaks
- Suggestions for specialized devices or equipment modifications, such as splints or wrist supports, to enhance safety and comfort during work duties
In addition to ergonomics training, our hand therapists may provide other hand therapy services to address your symptoms, including therapeutic exercises, joint mobilizations, and modalities such as electrical stimulation or cryotherapy.
Whether you have been injured at work, at home, or during your favorite leisure activities, we invite you to contact Cascade Hand & Orthopedic Rehab to schedule a visit with an experienced hand therapist. Our goal is to help you feel and move better, no matter where life takes you.
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