Bend Don't Break

Do you wake up in the morning with a kink in your neck? Do your knees hurt when you climb stairs? Is a sore muscle or achy joint causing pain that interferes with your everyday life? These are signs you may have a Musculoskeletal Disorder (MSD).

Musculoskeletal injuries have an impact on your entire body and mind. Preventive measures to avoid such injuries include:

  • Good posture really is a tool for a healthy body! As you stand, walk, carry packages, sit or kneel, good posture is an important element.
  • Take stretch breaks. If you sit all day, get up and walk around for five minutes every hour. Stretch your arms, legs and shoulders.
  • Practice proper lifting. Carrying heavy items on a regular basis can hurt parts of your body.
  • Keep joints, muscles and bones strong. Perform strength building exercises, especially focused on core strength (abdominals and back). Make sure to get enough Vitamin D and calcium for healthy bones.  
  • Quit smoking. Smoking can cause a loss of bone mineral content and an increase in fractures.

There are many treatments for MSDs, depending on their location and severity. Medications, acupuncture, chiropractic, physical therapy, massage or surgery may be beneficial.

* The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reported in 2014 that world-wide MSDs are the second leading causeof disability.

* The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 31.8 new cases of MSDs per 10,000 full-time workers per year are due to over-exertion, body reaction or repetitive motions.

“Are you moving poorly because you are in PAIN? Or are you in PAIN because you are moving poorly?”   Gray Cook