MSD Prevention & Back care

Transcription

1 MSD Prevention & Back care

2 What is MSD? & Why should I care? Be part of the solution!

3 Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) The Umbrella Term Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) Musculoskeletal Injury (MSI, MSK) Cumulative Trauma disorder (CTD) Work related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) Occupational overuse syndrome (OOS) Sprain and strain

4 Definition of Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD) MSDs are injuries and disorders of the musculoskeletal system. They are caused or aggravated by various hazards or risk factors in the workplace. The musculoskeletal system includes; Muscle, tendons, ligaments, joints, nerves, bursa, blood vessels, spinal discs MSDs do not include injuries that are direct result of a fall, struck by or against, caught in or on, MVC, violence etc..

5 What causes MSDs? 1. Awkward body postures 2. Repetition,, especially the rate of repetition 3. Force used in a task 4. Static loading of muscles 5. The risk of each of these factors is increased when combined with duration 6. Combination of any of the above

6 Additional Hazards Vibration: There are two types of vibration; whole body and segmental Temperature: Working in either very hot or cold environments Contact Stress: Occurs when part of the body comes in contact with hard, sharp surfaces or objects Work Methods: refers to the way work is done (technique or habits) proper training, assistive devices etc..

7 Assessing Your Risk Jobs that have abnormal postures that create excessive muscular action or static loading. Jobs that do not have a lot of movement in them, like sitting at a workstation for prolonged periods have the same predisposition for back problems.

8 Symptoms of MSDs May include the following; Numbness or a burning sensation in the hand Reduced grip strength Swelling or stiffness in the joints Reduced range of motion in the shoulder, neck or back Aching or tingling

9 Symptoms con t Cramping Weakness Tension, stress, headaches and related ailments Eye irritation or blurred vision In time, they may become worse and not stop when away from the workplace

10 Facts Everyone will experience some type of back pain during the course of their lives. More than 70 % of back problems begin during routine daily activities Accidents or trauma account for only 30 % of back problems For many people, back pain can be caused by poor posture and bad habits,, regardless of occupation Nurses 38% of all nurses will suffer a back injury at work 2/3 of them are due to lifting a patient MSD s are the single largest WSIB lost time injury

11 Assessing Your Risk Lifting The heavier the load, the greater the risk to the back. If twisting movement is involved in lifting, the greater risk to the back Situations where a weight shifts suddenly while being lifted can also create risk (e.g., Transferring a patient)

12 What can you do? Lift smart use correct body mechanics, neutral spine, flex abdominals, keep load close, don t t twist move feet Modify Height Raise or lower work surface Reduce Effort Ask for help! Plan the route Use the right tools use appropriate lifting devices to assist with load

13 Office Tips Sitting Posture Sit in a chair that is low enough to place both feet on floor or use a foot rest, adjust seat height to just below knee cap when standing Have a chair that supports your lower back in a slightly arched position Use an arm rest whenever possible to reduce stress to the upper body and neck Adjust your chair to suit your individual needs especially in shared workstations

14 Your desk space Know how to adjust your workstation Make the correct adjustments to your chair Adjust the keyboard, monitor height, and distance When doing a lot of mouse activity try to alternate between left & right hand use Think of what data entry device you use most frequent & locate it in a neutral position Request an ergonomic evaluation through Occupational Health Nurse

15 Preventing Back Pain Posture should be stable, balanced and relaxed when sitting, walking or standing. Sitting don t t sit for long periods of time; stand up, stretch and walk around. Driving position your car seat so your back is supported and your legs are relaxed and slightly bent. Sleeping your mattress should be firm enough to support your spine in a neutral position no sagging! Mix it up Add variety and vary your tasks/chores Exercise a healthy body-weight puts less strain on your back. Keeping your back flexible and strong with correct back and stomach exercises.

16 Other MSD prevention tips Lower rather than lift Always use proper lifting techniques Push rather than pull Push or pull rather than carry Work within the power zone Avoid awkward postures Build adjustability into the job/task

17 Thank you! If you have any questions or concerns please bring them to the attention of your supervisor or a member of the Joint Occupational Health & Safety Committee