COMPUTER ERGONOMICS & PHYSIOTHERAPY
Does work give you a pain in the neck and back?
With the rapid development of computers an increasing number of poeple are working in offices for long hours in relatively fixed positions, performing repetitive movements while working hard to meet deadlines. These aches and pains are helt in the neck, shoulder, upper and lower back, wrist and elbow joints. In some cases, the nerves to the hand become compressed, causing weakness and/or tingling in the fingers. These symptons can occur in the onset of Repativice Strain Injury (RSI), which may include damage to tendons, muscles, nerves and other soft tissues from repeated physical movements over time.
Make sure you don't neglect the importance of postuce as you sit down to your computer everyday. Not only can poor posture cause pain whilst you work, you may find your home and sporting life severely affected as well. If can also lead to long term damage which will affect you in later years.
Physiotherapy Can Help!
A Physiotherapist with knowledge in ergonomics and work related conditions can perform an individual work station assessment. Recommendations will be given such as the correct seating and workspace layout to prevent such conditions happeing. Risks will be identified and advice given on correct posture, height of the desk and chair, position of screen, mouse and keyboard.
Guidlines for healthy computer use
Get Moving & Stretching: Get up from your work station for a short stretch or walk around to promote blood flow to fatigued muscles every hour.
Variety: Add variety to your tasks. Take every break as an opportunity to go for a short walk and stretch. Try to vary your tasks.
Reduce Strain: Make sure you are sitting correctly with your back supported. Speak to us about ways to make sure you are sitting in the best possible position.
Talk to your physiotherapist: This pain and discomfort can be prevented, but if symptoms do occur, early intervention is the best form of treatment. If you are experiencing regular or increasing discomfort while sitting at your computer, take early corrective action. A physiotherapist will listen to your symptoms and assess posture and positioning at your workstation. They will also work towards an earlier return to your daily lifestyle as well as provide guidence on how to prevent recurrence of injury.
This information was produced by the Australian Physiotherapy Association, PBA - For your printable version click here.
CORE STABILITY AND BACK PAIN
What is Core Stability
Core stability is the training of the abdominal muscles to support the spine and is fundamental to the Pilates concept, Yoga, and current physiotherapy treatment of low back pain.
The abdominal muscles comprise the 'sit up' muscles. Recent research suggests that the deepest layer of these muscles is one of the most important providers of support to the low bacl.
Core stability is important as it provides a protective muscular corset, reducing excessive movement of the easily damaged joints. It helps prevent low back pain caused by the placement of the spine into extreme positions.
Why is Core Stability useful in the treatment of back pain? Pain has been shown to turn muscles off. Pain encourages sufferers to adopt pain relieving positions but ultimately they add to the problem.
Core Stability provides a focus, both mental and physical, away from symptomatic relief and towards constructive support of the painful structures.
Improving core stability and postural awareness can sometimes produce instant relief. However, a slow reduction in pain, requiring some commitment from the sufferer is more common.
How we can help you!
We can devise a program for you that will incorporate core stability exercises to treat your back pain. Core Stability exercises improve the muscular corset around the back, and it is important to isolate the exact muscles for the desired effect. If the whole tummy is tensed up, the stability muscles do not strengthen up well. Why not ask your physiotherapist about it today!.
Symptoms of instability
This information was produced by the Australian Physiotherapy Association, APA - For your printable version click here.
THE RIGHT ADVICE – FIRST!
The first 72 hours following an injury are vital when it comes to successful treatment and timely recovery. Often it’s difficult to know what to do and conflicting advice can be confusing.
Knowing when to use ice or heat, whether to elevate or stabilise are just some of the rules which are often forgotten in the panic and stress of an accident. That’s why at The Sports Injury Clinic we provide a 24hour injury line where you can speak directly to a qualified physiotherapist who will give accurate, professional advice regarding vital first aid and follow up treatment. The correct action immediately can save days, even weeks on the sidelines and get you back doing what you love as soon as possible.
So for the right advice, first call 1800 351 421.
THE PHOENIX PROGRAM
WEIGHT LOSS SUCCESS THROUGH COMMON SENSE
CLICK HERE: The Sports Injury Clinic has uncovered a ground breaking weight loss program that gives new hope to people struggling with obesity.
If you are struggling with obesity you will know the shortcomings of most weight loss programs and the feelings of despair and frustration that come with failed attempts to lose and manage your weight
Now The Sports Injury Clinic has uncovered a weight loss program that finally addresses the real issues and is aligned entirely with the philosophies we hold regarding weight loss. The Phoenix Program employs the three elements we believe are vital to realistic weight loss – those of understanding, education and support. The program is also held over a realistic twelve month period, giving the participant a genuine opportunity to tackle the complex problems that obesity presents.
The Phoenix P rogram is a new and exciting concept unlike anything we’ve seen before . It is the FIRST in Australia to use an innovative, highly effective three phase structure which begins with individual evaluation, assessment and program preparation. The program also includes a “live in” phase where participants carry out a portion of the program at a Mornington Peninsula retreat. Here they benefit from a comprehensive schedule including education, monitored activity and information based on latest research.
Participants have access to highly qualified, experienced professionals including dietitians, counsellors, exercise physiologists, physiotherapists, Pilates instructors and massage therapists. They are even treated to personal leisure time where they can enjoy a spa treatment and some well deserved pampering!
Perhaps the most important phase and one we endorse highly is the support and maintenance phase . It’s no surprise that many weight loss programs fail when participants are left to cope on their own attempting to fit unrealistic goals into their normal routine and lifestyle. The Phoenix Program’s maintenance period gives consistent ongoing support and continued access to program professionals and facilities.
At The Sports Injury Clinic we believe that The Phoenix Program is distinctly different . The Phoenix Program employs a committed and experienced team of professionals who maintain the highest standards of excellence in achievable, realistic and maintainable weight loss.
If you think you could benefit from The Phoenix Program we urge you to find out more about an experience that will empower you with the confidence, strength and knowledge you need to achieve your weight loss goals.
Visit www.thephoenixprogram.com.au TODAY!
