Working from home during coronavirus pandemic causing a spike in chiropractic injuries

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Working from home during coronavirus pandemic causing a spike in chiropractic injuries

30 Jun, 2020

Can you spot Dr. Brad featuring in this article by 7news.com.au Health & Wellbeing?

Working from the kitchen table or bench during the coronavirus pandemic has taken its toll on Australian necks, shoulders and backs.

Chiropractors across the country began noticing an increase in work-related injuries within two weeks of the start of the lockdown.

“In addition to the more common neck and shoulder complaints, we’re certainly getting a lot of those repetitive strain type of injuries,” said Australian Chiropractors Association President Dr Anthony Coxon.

One of two key problems is that people are often working from set-ups that strain their muscles.

Some people’s well-intended desk arrangements can actually be worse than working from bed or the couch, says physiotherapist and workplace safety specialist David Hall.

Chiropractor treats his patient in his garage at home in Frankston as part of isolation requirements.
Chiropractor treats his patient in his garage at home in Frankston as part of isolation requirements. Credit: MICHAEL DODGE/AAPIMAGE

“The main challenge that people have when they’re working on a computer is having their head poked forward like a turtle,” Hall said.

“At least in most situations when they’re in bed or on the couch they tend to have their head back and supported.”

Coxon said: “For every two and a half centimetres that your head goes forward past your shoulders, it doubles the strain of the muscles in the back of the neck.”

Having a supportive chair and a desk at a suitable height to avoid hunching your shoulders is critical, they say.

Coxon also says the fact people are sitting for longer is causing or exacerbating injuries.

“Sitting is now being called the new smoking,” he said.

“That’s because sitting can not only cause spinal problems, but it’s also an independent risk factor for type two diabetes, obesity, heart disease and even some types of cancer.

“It’s really critical that you get out of your chair often.

“At least every 30 minutes you should be having a quick walk and a little stretch to move the body.”

Article by: Tiffanie Turnbull

https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/health-wellbeing/spike-in-injuries-caused-by-work-from-home-c-1104192?fbclid=IwAR2-UY0e4dkzBFIy72jGtwOq0_vjsH_y2C9bZXuRAlecL8dWx6efobvLMrM