Avoiding On-the-Job Pain as a Blue Collar Worker

By Brandi Swieter

Blue collar workers are a class of their own, handling many tough jobs that prove too difficult for others to accomplish. Construction workers, mechanics, delivery drivers, plumbers, and any other professions that work with their hands to perform hard labor fall in this category. Many of these people suffer from on-the-job pain caused by the hard work they’re doing. Much of this pain can be avoided with a few helpful tips that improve posture and keep the body healthy.

Drink Water Only

Staying hydrated is important for blue collar workers, particularly if their jobs land them outside in the heat. Not just any drink will do, though. Outdoor workers need to continue drinking water throughout the day. Other options like sports drinks and soda pop have far too much sugar to keep the body hydrated and healthy. They may cause a person to lose their focus and suffer an injury if they’re not careful. Water gives people the focus and energy they need on a hot day, or any day for that matter.

Stretch Before Work

Too many blue collar workers suffer from back pain while on the job. Whether they’re bending and picking up supplies or standing for long periods, the pain can come on suddenly and leave a person susceptible to injury. Stretching before each workday keeps the body prepared for the tasks at hand.

Wear the Right Clothes and Gear

Sandals and shorts don’t work well for blue collar workers. The right clothes need to get worn if people want to remain safe while on the job. Long sleeves and pants are often necessary so people do not suffer injuries to their arms and legs while working with tools and machinery. Steel-toe boots are often necessary to avoid harming the feet if anything heavy were to fall on them. UV-protected clothing is ideal for those working outside, along with gloves, hard hats, and other protective gear.

Blue collar work isn’t easy. With strenuous job duties to complete, many people complain about pain day after day of performing hard labor. With a few helpful tips, much of these aches can be avoided. Any blue collar worker who has already experienced pain while on the job should seek the help of a doctor of chiropractic from The Joint Chiropractic. The doctor will help to readjust the spine and eliminate the aches felt in various parts of the body. Regular adjustments may be needed for this line of work, and the no-appointment, no-insurance policy, coupled with extended hours, make The Joint an obvious source for pain relief when it's needed -- on your schedule. 

To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Gold River, Calif.