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.
