“Movement is an effective mode of avoiding or eliminating pain in the workplace,” he says. “Workers should walk around or at least stand up and stretch in place frequently if they are unable to leave their desk. Also, try walking instead of using inter-office mail or e-mail, and take the stairs instead of the elevator as you try to stay one step ahead of pain.”
Get Help for Heavy Lifting. One of the most common workplace injuries comes from lifting objects that are too heavy for you, especially when you are already living with pain. In most work settings, from construction sites to hospitals to warehouses, there are plenty of people around to prevent your chronic pain from getting worse.
“Lifting heavy objects is one of the easiest ways to injure your back — always ask someone to help you,” says Hahn. “Also, learn to lift properly to avoid pain. Squat, keep the object close to you, and bend and lift with your knees, not your back,” she says. “Push, do not pull, when moving heavy objects across the floor.”
Wear Comfortable Shoes. Another simple step that Hahn recommends to avoid chronic pain at work is to select the right shoes. Make sure your shoes fully support your feet and offer plenty of room for your toes. To save yourself pain, you may need to save the high heels for social occasions.
“If you stand or walk for long periods each day, be sure to wear flat, comfortable shoes with good arch support,” she says.
Talk to Your Boss or Human Resources Manager. If you are experiencing chronic pain on the job, hiding your problem is only going to make it worse. Ideally, you’ll want to discuss reasonable accommodations or adjustments that will address your pain and help you improve your productivity.
“Many people living with pain are fearful of talking to their boss,” says Micke A. Brown, RN, a pain management nurse and director of communications for the American Pain Foundation. “It is important to recognize those fears and prepare to talk with your employer or human resources director in a conversational, honest manner.”
Take Care of Your Body. Good health habits shouldn’t just be common practice at the workplace. Coping with pain, especially chronic pain, often requires a round-the-clock effort. Taking care of your overall health and physical condition is a good first line of defense in preventing pain and a must in managing it.
“Maintaining a healthy weight, sticking with a light aerobic and strength training program, and eating a healthy diet are essential,” Hahn says.
When Your Pain Isn’t Normal…
Whether you’ve got an achy back, neck, wrists, or more, if your pain doesn’t go away, talk to your doctor to find out what pain relief treatments will work for you…and what else may be behind your pain.
Pain At Work: 7 Tips To Deal With Your Day was originally published on blackdoctor.org
