Workplace Injuries, Prevention and Treatment

Occupational musculo-skeletal injuries account for over 60% of the 350 million working days a year lost in Britain, and not just in heavy industry, workers outside of heavy work have a very high rate of problems.

New technology, whether it be automated production lines or computer work stations, can also take its toll on the musculoskeletal system. Many people experience pain and discomfort as a result which can affect their well-being and their work.

A recent survey carried out by the osteopathic profession shows that one in ten patients treated by osteopaths consider the onset of their symptoms to have been work related. The human body evolved at a time when the physical and mental requirements were different, and modern work practice positioning might be using ourselves in a way to which we are not suited.

Significant groups of illnesses due to work are disorders of the muscles, tendons and joints, particularly in the back, hands and arms. Symptoms vary from mild aches and pains to severe pain and disability. An osteopath is ideally suited with his understanding of the body to treat these problems, and to be able to explain what daily actions could be causing the problem.

Osteopaths are skilled at discovering the underlying causes of pain, using their hands both to gain information and to treat injuries. Treatment techniques may include soft tissue stretching, rhythmic passive joint movements or high velocity thrusts amongst others, all to improve the range of movements of a joint, reduce pain, heal the underlying injury, and to seek out and treat the long term causes of the problem(s).

Well-known for the effective treatment of back and neck pain, osteopaths also treat a wide range of other conditions that may be related to the workplace, including tension headaches and migraine, and they can give remedial advice and preventative exercises. Osteopathy is the best profession to give advice on posture ergonomics and positioning in the workplace to eradicate any such causes that may be constantly aggravating or causing the problem.

For the employee:

Most of the 2000 Osteopaths in the UK work from private practices. It is not necessary to consult a GP before a visit to an osteopath although a patient may choose to do so. Increasingly osteopaths are working closely with GP's and many fundholding GP's now offer their patients the option of being referred to an osteopath on the NHS. The average cost of treatment in 1998 is just £23 ( £28 in London), very reasonable in comparison with any other private medical profession of equitable status. Many private health insurance schemes now give benefit for osteopathic treatment (discuss the details with the company). Osteopaths can provide a statutory sick note if time is needed off work.

For the Employer:

For years, a number of large companies have retained osteopaths as part of their permanent company health teams. Many smaller companies have also benefitted from liaison with a local osteopath, who can advise the management team on the correct posture and movement and give staff instruction on the back care and preventive exercises. An osteopath involved with care staff programmes can lead to a fitter, more productive workforce, improved morale, increased productivity and less time off through musculoskeletal ill-health. An osteopath can visit a workplace and very cost-effectively reduce workplace related injuries. Contact the above practice regarding this if you are interested in using the service.

Consultation: appointment by telephone 01293 784200