Workplace Takeaways From 'National Public Health Week'
National Public Health Week
The month of April is full of wonderful things like spring weather, baseball, and the tax deadline. Okay, maybe that last one doesn't qualify as wonderful. Anyways, what you might not be aware of is that for the last 18 years, the first week of April has been declared as National Public Health Week - an annual effort to promote health across U.S. communities. On April 3, a special emphasis was put on health in the workplace, with a focus on prevention. Chiropractors offered some simple tips for maintaining wellness on the job, whether you work at a desk, operate a vehicle, or stand on your feet all day.
Maintain Proper Posture
The first tips are to avoid extreme range of motion movements, and to work on maintaining good posture. While these might seem obvious, most of us know that it is all too easy to slouch over, hunch our necks, or stay in one position for long periods of time. Minimizing these things takes stress off the spine, helping to prevent pain and degeneration.
Use Proper Lifting Techniques
The next tip laments the importance of using large muscles to bear the burden of heavy lifting. We have all heard that it is best to "lift with your legs, not with your back," but a majority of the population fails to practice the old adage. When we lift with the back, we put excessive stress on muscles that are not built for the job. This can lead to pulled muscles, strains, or musculoskeletal discomfort, so try to avoid it or ask a co-worker for help.
Following these preventative measures will help you establish a healthier workplace by bettering your own individual health. It starts with one person. If you or someone you know is experiencing back, neck, or joint pain as a result of work posture or work environmental stress, it may benefit you to contact a chiropractor for an adjustment. Aligning the spine through non-invasive chiropractic manipulation helps avoid surgery, drug therapy, and long term damage.
*Disclaimer: Always consult your physician or other health care professional before seeking treatment or taking related advice herein.*
Story Credit: http://www.chiroeco.com/chiropractic/news/14026/52/doctors%20of%20chiropractic%20help%20create%20healthy%20workplaces/
Photo Credit: Untitled by Beth Scupham. Used under a Creative Commons license.