Tackling the back breaking issue!

Spinal Health Week 2014 (19th-25th May) aims to raise awareness of preventable spinal injuries.

Over the past 10 years there has been a sharp rise in people taking time off work due to lower back pain.

This is estimated to be costing Australian businesses $1 billion per year, most of which is due to preventable spinal conditions. Many of the workforce spend a significant proportion of their day sitting – whether it be in the car, at work, eating dinner or relaxing – and this is where the problem lies.

The compressive forces we put through the spine during prolonged sitting can lead to disc injuries and degenerative changes. All of which can be prevented using a few workplace tips for a healthy spine…

• Don’t sit for longer than 20 minutes at a time. Get up and move, even if its just walking to the water cooler and back.

• Ensure your workstation is set up correctly. The silent unfelt damage inflicted on your body by prolonged poor seated posture is huge. Don’t let it get the better of you.

• Try and be on your feet for the first 40 minutes of the morning before sitting in the car or at your desk. Go for a short walk up and down the street. It will benefit your spinal and overall health.

• Prevention is the best medicine so listen to your body. If you’re experiencing aches and pains in the morning or during work get checked by a professional to prevent long term issues creeping in.

We at HealthSpace Clinic are tackling the back breaking effects of the workplace head on. We’re offering free ergonomic assessment for local businesses in the Inner West during Spinal Health Week and complimentary spinal health talks on Tuesday 20th and Thursday 22nd May at 7.30pm. If you’d like to utilise these services please give the clinic a call or pop in for more details.

Words: Dr Callum Forrest at HealthSpace Clinic Rozelle, 737 Darling Street. T. 9810 8769.