Common workplace injuries related to poor ergonomics

Common workplace injuries related to poor ergonomics often stem from repetitive strain, awkward postures, and prolonged static positions. Here are some of the most prevalent types of injuries:

1. Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve in the wrist, often due to repetitive motions or awkward wrist positions.
  • Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons, commonly affecting the shoulders, elbows, and wrists due to repetitive tasks.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs) around the joints, often caused by repetitive movements or prolonged pressure.

2. Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs)

  • Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, typically from repetitive arm and wrist movements.
  • Trigger Finger: A condition where a finger gets stuck in a bent position due to inflammation of the tendon sheath.

3. Back and Neck Injuries

  • Lower Back Pain: Often resulting from poor posture, inadequate chair support, or improper lifting techniques.
  • Herniated Discs: Displacement of the cushioning discs between the vertebrae, which can be caused by improper lifting or prolonged poor posture.
  • Neck Strain: Commonly due to poor desk setup, such as monitors placed too low or too high.

4. Shoulder Injuries

  • Rotator Cuff Injuries: Strain or tears in the shoulder muscles and tendons, often from repetitive overhead motions or poor ergonomic setups.
  • Shoulder Impingement: Compression of the shoulder tendons and bursa, typically from repetitive overhead activities or poor posture.

5. Eye Strain (Computer Vision Syndrome)

  • Digital Eye Strain: Includes symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches, often caused by prolonged screen time without proper breaks or ergonomic adjustments.

6. Lower Limb Injuries

  • Knee Pain: Can be caused by prolonged standing or improper seating arrangements that do not support the legs properly.
  • Varicose Veins: Prolonged standing or sitting can lead to poor blood circulation, causing swollen, twisted veins in the legs.

7. Foot and Ankle Injuries

  • Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the plantar fascia (a band of tissue on the bottom of the foot), often from prolonged standing or improper footwear.
  • Ankle Sprains: Can occur from tripping or slipping, often related to poor footwear or unsafe walking surfaces.

8. Hand and Finger Injuries

  • De Quervain's Tenosynovitis: Inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, often from repetitive gripping or wrist movements.
  • Raynaud's Syndrome: Reduced blood flow to the fingers, typically triggered by cold or repetitive stress, leading to numbness and color changes.

Prevention Tips

To prevent these injuries, it is crucial to implement proper ergonomic practices:

  • Adjust Workstations: Ensure desks, chairs, and computer monitors are at appropriate heights.
  • Use Ergonomic Tools: Invest in ergonomic keyboards, mice, and chairs.
  • Take Breaks: Encourage regular breaks to stretch and move around.
  • Practice Good Posture: Maintain a neutral posture to reduce strain.
  • Educate Employees: Provide training on proper ergonomics and safe work practices.

By addressing ergonomic issues proactively, workplaces can significantly reduce the risk of these common injuries.

Need more advice or treatment? Many health care experts at Antarnaad are always here to help you out. Antarnaad is a growing network of experienced physiotherapists, dietitians, nutritionists, fitness trainers and Yoga experts providing treatment for all the conditions. For more information visit our website www.antarnaad.net or call our Consultant: Mb: 9899700187.