“Ergonomics” is the science of designing the job, equipment and the work place to fit the worker. This may be an office workers computer and desk set up, a sales reps car, or an industrial workers production line.

Proper ergonomic design is essential to prevent/minimise any work related problems that can develop over time and lead to longer term disability.

In 2004 it was estimated that 4.7 million working days were lost due to neck pain or upper limb disorders related to work, with the average employee affected by such conditions having 13 days off sick. Musculoskeletal problems (being problems with your joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments etc) are the most common ailment in Great Britain and account for half the cases of occupational health reports - accounting for 1 million cases per year and costing the UK industry £3 billion per year.

The main risk factors are thought to be poor work place design, poor posture, and prolonged periods of work without adequate breaks. Excessive workloads, stress and poor patterns of work can also contribute to these problems.

To minimise these risks it is essential to be aware that “prevention is better than cure”, therefore having a thorough physiotherapy and work station assessment performed can ensure that you are sitting, moving, lifting and working properly.

Poor ergonomics can lead to problems in most areas of the body and cause symptoms including back and neck pain, shoulder and upper limb pain, low back pain, referred leg pain and lower limb pains.

If you are currently suffering from pain and loss of function at work then we can assess and diagnose the cause of this, treat the symptoms with a variety of physiotherapy techniques and, most importantly, help you make changes to your working environment and working practice to prevent future recurrences.

If you are an employer or employee interested in work place assessments or staff talks on back care and lifting advice, then please do call the clinic and we will be happy to discuss how we can help you with these.