Work – Driving, Lifting & Sitting

The Office for National Statistics report that 35 million working days are lost each year to musculoskeletal issues in the UK alone.

Habitual poor posture can contribute to daily aches and discomfort in the workplace and beyond.

Whether you work at a desk or have a more manual occupation, your job may expose you to stresses and strains that can cause you pain.

Common causes of strain in the workplace can include:

• Prolonged sitting at a desk,
• driving long distances,
• awkward lifting and carrying,
• overstretching and bending,
• extended periods of repetitive motion,
• using a computer without taking breaks.

Driving

Adjust car seat so your knees are just below seat level, sit up straight and keep both hands on the steering wheel. Use a lumber support (or rolled-up towel) to give support to your lower back and when driving long distances don’t forget to take regular breaks.

Computer Workstations

• Keep the keyboard directly in front of you
• Place the screen at a comfortable distance
• Adjusting your computer display so the top of the screen is at eye level may be more comfortable for your upper body and neck
• Maintain your back in neutral posture
• Avoid extended reaches
• Keep forearms and hands horizontal, with your elbows vertically under your shoulders (no angle at the wrists)
• Adjust your chairs height so that your knees are level or slightly below your hips and both feet are flat on the floor

Lifting & Carrying

When lifting, judge whether you can do this safely alone or do you need help:

• Remember your back when lifting.
• Always keep the item close to your body.
• Keep the lift smooth.
• Distribute the weight of the load evenly.
• Bend your knees and make your legs do the work.
• Try not to twist your back turn with your feet.