Staying Strong at Work: Reducing Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs)
Work should empower you, not drain your energy. Yet many Australians experience stiffness, discomfort, or fatigue due to their work routines. A major factor behind these issues is a group of conditions known as work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). These affect the muscles, tendons, joints, and spine and can be influenced by daily work activities.
Chiropractor Dr Paul Harlond explains, “When people understand how their body responds to daily stress and posture habits, they can make simple changes that have a lasting positive impact on their comfort and wellbeing.”
Why WMSDs Matter
WMSDs affect people across many professions, from trades and transport to healthcare and office environments. In Australia, they remain a leading workplace health concern. According to Safe Work Australia, more than half of all serious workers’ compensation claims relate to these conditions, often due to repetitive movements, awkward postures, or heavy loads. Both physical and psychosocial factors can increase the risk, highlighting the need for a balanced, supportive work environment.
Recent studies estimate that WMSDs cost the Australian economy more than $55 billion annually due to healthcare costs and lost productivity.
Simple Ways to Support Your Body at Work
Whether you’re based in one of the medical or research precincts near Hollywood Private Hospital, teaching at the University of Western Australia, or working in the offices and cafés along Stirling Highway, small daily habits can help support your comfort at work.
1. Check your workstation setup
Your monitor should be at eye level, your chair should support your lower back, and your feet should rest comfortably on the floor. A well-designed workspace can help reduce strain on your neck and spine.
2. Take movement breaks
Even a brief stretch or short walk every 30 to 45 minutes may help ease stiffness and improve circulation.
3. Maintain good posture
Relax your shoulders and keep your ears in line with your shoulders when using screens. Good posture may help reduce fatigue and tension in spinal muscles.
4. Lift and bend safely
Use your legs rather than your back, and avoid twisting when lifting. Small, mindful adjustments can help reduce strain.
5. Manage stress
Emotional stress can contribute to muscle tension. Mindfulness, breathing exercises, and regular movement may help your body recover and stay balanced.
How Chiropractic Care May Help
Chiropractic care may support healthy movement and assist with muscular tension associated with work-related activity. Through gentle, tailored care, chiropractors aim to promote spinal mobility and comfort.
Dr Jenae Reid (Chiropractor) shares, “We love helping people discover how small posture and movement changes can make their workday more comfortable and enjoyable.”
Ready to Support Your Body at Work?
If your work leaves you feeling stiff or tense, a little extra support may help you maintain comfort and movement. At our Dalkeith practice, we provide personalised care to support healthy spinal function and posture. Contact Dalkeith Chiropractic today to schedule an appointment!
Book an Appointment Today