How physical therapy can help treat common workplace ailments

Dealing with a workplace injury can be tough — from the pain to the confusion about what to do next — and it can be overwhelming trying to find the right care and support for your recovery. But with the right care, you can get support in treating these injuries and help navigating your journey to healing.

How to avoid workplace injuries

To stay healthy and productive at work, it's important to prevent injuries. One way to do this is by ensuring you have proper posture when sitting at a desk and looking at a computer all day.

"Setting up your workspace ergonomically can also help reduce the risk of injuries from repetitive strain and poor posture," says Nancy See, PT, MPT. "Adjusting your chair, desk and computer screen can promote good posture and minimize stress on your body."

It's also important to take regular breaks during the workday to prevent muscle fatigue and injuries. Additionally, staying active outside of work through regular exercise can strengthen muscles and improve flexibility, making the body more resilient to physical demands.

By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can create a safer work environment for yourself and minimize the risk of common workplace injuries.

Common workplace injuries and how they're treated

If you do experience a workplace injury, it can have a big impact on your life and work. You'll first need to see your doctor, who can give you a proper diagnosis and recommend the best treatment option for your condition. If appropriate, they will refer you to a physical therapist.

Physical therapists often treat back and neck pain, which can be caused by bad posture or repetitive movements. This pain can range from mild to severe, affecting how well you can move and your overall quality of life. Physical therapy can help by offering exercises to strengthen muscles and increase flexibility.

"Repetitive strain injuries are another prevalent issue, resulting from overuse of certain body parts, particularly in tasks involving repetitive motion," says See. These injuries can lead to symptoms like pain, swelling or numbness. Treatment often involves rest, ergonomic adjustments and targeted exercises to support recovery and prevent future incidents.

Carpal tunnel syndrome, primarily affecting the hands and wrists, is often seen in individuals performing repetitive hand movements. Symptoms include tingling, numbness and pain, and physical therapists can treat this condition through wrist strengthening exercises, stretches and education on wrist health.

The role of physical therapists in your recovery

Physical therapists are experts in restoring strength, flexibility and mobility to help you get back to your daily activities and work confidently. They can help with a wide range of common workplace ailments, from back and neck pain to repetitive strain injuries.

"Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and encouragement needed to take the first step towards recovery," says See.

So, if you do experience a workplace injury, remember that physical therapists can help you find relief. By seeking professional guidance and taking proactive measures, you can recover and improve your quality of life.

Next steps:

Make an appointment with Nancy See, PT, MPT
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