Osteopathy and work strain

Occupational injuries account for many for the 350 million working days a year lost in Britain. Osteopaths are skilled at discovering underlying causes of pain. They are trained to have a thorough understanding of anatomy and physiology, they use their hands to investigate and treat injuries to the ligaments, muscles and joints. Poor posture can contribute to daily aches and pains whether you lift heavy loads, sit at the PC incorrectly or drive for long periods. An osteopath can advise on correct posture and movement and can give instruction on back care and preventative exercises.

Common problems

Significant types 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 severepain and disability.

Problems caused by manual handling and lifting:

- Muscle and tendon injuries

- Intervertebral disc lesions (‘slipped disc’)

- Sciatica

Problems caused by forceful or repetitive movements:

- Carpal tunnel syndrome

- Tenosynovitis

- Peritendinitis

- Epicondylitis (e.g. ‘tennis elbow)

- Mouse wrist

Problems caused by unsuitable posture or repetitive movements:

- Low back pain

- Neck and shoulder pain

- Computer hump

- Repetitive Stain Injury

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 benefited from liaison with their local osteopaths.

· Having an osteopath involved in your staff care programmes can lead to a fitter workforce and improved moral, increased productivity and less time off through ill-health

For the employee

· Most of the 3500 osteopaths in the UK work from private practices, however many GPs are working more closely with osteopaths and can offer the option of referring patients to an osteopath on the NHS.

· Many people consult an osteopath privately.

· Many private health insurance schemes now cover osteopathic treatment (discuss the details with your company).

· You do not need to consult your GP before you visit an osteopath although you may choose to do so.

· Osteopaths can provide you with a sick note if you need time off work.

To help reach a full diagnosis, your osteopath will need to know about your job:

· Is your work repetitive?

· Do you have much heavy lifting?

· Do you have to bend and twist frequently?

· Do you have to work in an awkward posture?

· Does your work involve frequent finger, hand or arm movements?

· Do you have any work breaks?

· Are you working in difficult conditions?

· Do you sit down at work and for how long?

· Do you spend a great deal of your day on the telephone?

· Are you expected to work to deadlines?

· Of the tasks you perform, which cause you the most discomfort?

· What is your working relationship with peers and employers?

· Have you received training in how to prevent risks at work?