Ergonomics

Accurate ergonomic assessment and effective workplace precautions can prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders from developing. Christy Onya, DC, of Forever On Your Mind Chiropractic, offers complete ergonomic and workstation assessments. For an evaluation and recommendations to help you avoid long-term, work-related injury, call the Kingwood, Texas, office or book an appointment online.

What is ergonomics?

Ergonomics is a science-based study of how to prevent work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This discipline includes specially designed products, equipment, and processes that lower your risk of injury related to:

• Heavy lifting
• Heavy pulling or pushing
• Unnatural, awkward body movements
• Frequent, repetitive bending or reaching
• Repetitive small or large movements

Ergonomics can educate employers on how to provide proper equipment to their employees and equip employees to protect themselves from long-term complications and disabilities related to MSDs.

What are some musculoskeletal disorders?

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders lead to injuries to muscles, ligaments, bones, and tendons. Dr. Onya works to prevent these disorders through her thorough knowledge of risks and proper habits, and equipment that decreases strain and misuse of the musculoskeletal system.   

Preventable MSDs include:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Rotator cuff injury
• Tendinitis
• Tennis elbow
• Muscle or ligament strain
• Degenerative disc disease
• Low back or neck injury
• Herniated or ruptured disc

Identifying the personal and workspace risk factors that place you at elevated risk in the workplace can help you know what role you can play in protecting yourself.

What increases my risk for MSDs?

Increased risk factors of MSDs can be a combination of potentially damaging, work-related processes and poor work habits.

Workspace

Workspace-related risk factors include activities that require increased force or repetitive movements or those that don’t support proper posture and body mechanics.

Personal

Personal risk factors that you may contribute include poor work practices, poor fitness levels, and poor eating habits.

A professional ergonomic assessment can help identify both work-related and personal habits that are placing you at higher risk.

What is an ergonomic assessment?

An ergonomic assessment evaluates how your workspace, work practices, and personal habits can contribute to your increased risk for MSDs. This involves determining what movements and activities you do regularly as part of your job requirements, the effectiveness and safety of your workspace, and what MSDs pose the highest risk for you.

Dr. Onya also performs a workspace assessment using a picture of you sitting at your desk, or by doing on-site corporate workspace assessments for employers. Dr. Onya inspects your workspace and your posture to identify any areas of concern.

Using the information she gathers from your assessment, Dr. Onya makes recommendations about what you and your employer can do to reduce your MSD risks. This may include:

• Change in chair, desk, or equipment position
• Changes in workflow or specific processes
• Addition of work-related, ergonomic products
• Posture changes
• Lifestyle changes
• Regular massage therapy
• Regular chiropractic adjustment
• Exercises, stretches, or activity suggestions
• Periods of rest or timed breaks

For an ergonomic assessment, call or book an appointment online with Forever On Your Mind Chiropractic.