What is an Ergonomic Injury?
An injury that occurs due to repetitive movements over time (typically not an instantaneous or acute event) affecting muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, joints, cartilage, or spinal discs. A common term used to describe ergonomic injuries is Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD).
Common MSD’s include the following: Tendinitis, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Epicondylitis (tennis elbow), Tenosynovitis, along with a variety of other disorders that occur when muscles are overused or strained.
MSDs can develop when job tasks include excessive reaching, bending, and lifting heavy and/or bulky objects. Using excessive force, working in awkward postures over extended periods of time with a body part pressing against a hard or sharp surface can also contribute to disorders. Just remember that physical strain can occur anytime and anywhere - at work or somewhere else.
The good news is these disorders or injuries are preventable and reversible in the early stages! All you need is an understanding of these disorders, how to prevent them and a commitment to making changes. Generally, change to the physical environment, job tasks, or work behaviors is required. Taking good care of your body is also very important in reducing the risk of injury while increasing comfort, safety and productivity.
Seek medical attention if the following signs or symptoms appear in the neck, shoulders, elbows, forearms, wrists, fingers, back or knees.