Physical damage that occurs due to repeated actions or movements over a long period of time are called repetitive stress injuries. These types of injuries are commonly seen in different work settings, whether in the office, in the warehouse, or anywhere else. They are attributed to the natural wear and tear that occurs as a result of using our bodies to accomplish the various tasks required of us in the workplace. If left untreated, repetitive stress injuries can worsen over time and cause a great deal of pain, discomfort, and even immobility. Following are five frequent kinds of office wear and tear.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – This is a condition wherein the carpal tunnel, the area where important nerves and tendons rest in your hand, becomes affected by swelling or compression due to overuse. People that work on a computer or any job that makes frequent use of the hands may be susceptible to this – with those suffering from it reporting episodes of numbness, weakness, tingling sensations, and more.
- Back Problems – Back problems occur when strain or injury is caused on the spine or the areas around it. One of the most common causes for back pain is sitting down a lot as well as failing to keep your back straight – which makes this another office worker’s ailment. Another job that tends to see a high number of back problems amongst its workers are jobs where heavy lifting and frequent bending are required. People that suffer from back injuries complain of pain, tingling sensations around the leg area, and difficulty moving.
- Loss of Hearing – People that work in very loud working environments are at a risk of experiencing hearing loss. These are common in construction jobs and those that work in firing ranges or clubs where loud music is played nightly. Failing to protect the ears properly can result in partial, or even full, deafness.
- Shoulder Problems – Shoulder problems also occur from heavy lifting and poor posture at work. These injuries also worsen as time goes by, and if action is not taken to fix the problem or at least support the shoulder area at work, then this may result in more serious injuries that can permanently affect shoulder muscles and ligaments and cause frozen shoulders.
- Tendonitis – Any inflammation of a tendon in any joint in the body is called tendonitis. This is a serious condition that is excruciatingly painful and is a strain on movement – understandable as these tendons serve as the connections between your muscles and bones. Tendonitis when left unchecked can unravel to a point where your ability to enjoy life and continue working becomes hindered.
TukkoMed is a good place for medical professionals to read up on issues relevant to the healthcare industry – and if you are a qualified medical evaluator in California, send us a message and we will show you how HIPAA compliant reporting does not have to be a pain in your neck.