Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/676806
14 May, 2016 l Working World l WorkingWorld.com FEATURED ARTICLE by NewsUSA W e've heard a lot about "workplace ergonomics" in recent years, but with the economy changing—more people are working from home, whether by choice or their employers' decisions to "go virtual,"—maybe it's time to acknowledge the obvious: It's just as easy to injure yourself no matter where you physically work. Think about it: When it comes to a wide range of musculoskeletal injuries caused by stress to the joints from repetitive tasks, overuse of muscles and poor posture, what's the difference if you're slumping in front of an office computer or a home laptop? Or lifting heavy cartons onto the back of a delivery truck or your closet shelf? As the Society for Human Resource Management advises: "Employees who work from home or travel for work should be taught to assess their ad-hoc workplaces for ergonomic risks." If you are hurting, doctors of chiropractic—who have a minimum of seven years of higher education —focus on structure and function. They care for pain syndromes with a drug-free approach that includes spinal manipulation and exercises to help stretch out and strengthen core muscles. Meanwhile, here's a few tips to follow: • Invest in a good chair, mind your posture, and learn proper lifting and stretching techniques. • Keep your eyes at the same height as the computer monitor—without leaning forward—to help avoid headaches and neck pain. • Take frequent stretching micro- breaks and stay hydrated with water. "Back injuries are the most prevalent occupational injury, and studies have shown chiropractic patients have consistently better outcomes," says the not-for-profit Foundation for Chiropractic Progress' Dr. Gerard Clum, DC. In fact, they're part of a growing trend among businesses—at least those that recognize the link between healthy bottom lines and healthy employees—to adopt on-site wellness programs that incorporate chiropractic care. "Employers are now seeing that employee health is important beyond health care costs," said Beth Bierbower, president of Humana's Employer Group Segment. "It has profound impacts on productivity, retention, workplace engagement and morale." One of the earliest adoptees was the Wisconsin-based nutritional supplement company Standard Process. So impressed was management back in 1988 with the enthusiasm for an employee-initiated walking program that it ultimately took things a giant step further—starting a wellness program for its own and other companies' workers called "Cultivate." Its four core pillars: nutrition, fitness, health education and—yes, you guessed it—chiropractic care. To date, Standard Process reports approximately 90 percent employee participation, which has resulted in: • Reduced health care claims. • Higher rates of employees committing to health and wellness goals. • Enhanced employee productivity, health, satisfaction and retention. "As evidence emerges further documenting the positive outcomes associated with chiropractic care, I expect a larger number of employers will be impressed and take steps toward inclusion of chiropractic care," said Gerard Clum, DC, of the not-for- profit Foundation for Chiropractic Progress. Updating Workplace Ergonomics for Today's Economy As the Society for Human Resource Management advises: "Employees who work from home or travel for work should be taught to assess their ad-hoc workplaces for ergonomic risks."