Musculoskeletal Disease
Musculoskeletal disorders develop from long-term use, misuse or overuse of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, cartilage or spinal discs.
Typically the disorder stems from continual strain and pressure applied over time versus one single incident, although very rare cases can occur. Some of the more common causes of Musculoskeletal Disorders include:
- Sitting in the same position, or an uncomfortable position, for some time
- Repetition of the same movement for long periods of time
- Exerting excess force on an object for movement or handling
- Being exposed to the vibration of heavy machinery for long periods of time
- Direct pressure on soft tissue
- Living or working in cold temperatures causing reduced elasticity of muscle dexterity
- Stress
- Incorrect lifting, pulling, pushing or reaching
Common symptoms include:
- muscle pain and weakness,
- joint swelling,
- numbness or tingling sensations,
- tenderness to the touch,
- loss of coordination,
- muscle spasms or strains,
- limited joint mobility.
Treatments for work-related Musculoskeletal Disease include restriction of movement, hot and/or cold application to the site of pain, exercise, medication and surgery.
Restricting the movement that causes the pain is a good idea. It may be helpful to use a splint for support or restriction of the muscle or joint that has the pain.
It important to stretch out the muscles that are causing the pain. Stretching properly reduces tension in the muscles and improves blood circulation.
Some over-the-counter medication, such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs, can battle the pain and help reduce the inflammation. Doctors may have other medication suggestions for serious cases. In serious cases, the last resort, surgery, may be needed.
ErgoSafe™ Products works closely with nursing homes and other care giving institutions to provide patient handling devices to assist caregivers with their daily tasks of moving and repositioning patients. Call ErgoSafe™ today and begin employing safer conditions for your employees and patients.