Trades Worker
Physical Work
The heavy physical demands of trades work is unique. Even very athletic patients do not use and abuse their bodies the way trade workers do. There is both an advantage and a disadvantage to the demands of physical work.
The Advantage
Several joints and muscle groups benefit from the strength and endurance which accompanies industrial work. Constant movement is good for nourishing joint cartilage and keeping supportive muscles strong and toned. Our bodies are designed to move and therefore respond favourably to an active lifestyle.
The Disadvantage
Overloading joints with either too much weight, poor lifting techniques or repetitive movements will damage muscles, ligaments and joints. In other words, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing.
For example, industrial workers are at higher risk of straining their low back discs due to bad lifting techniques. Also, the tendons in the shoulders can be overused due to repetitive motion. Especially when arms are raised overhead.
When injury comes, even if it is not due to an accident but repetitive, chronic movements, treatment needs to be applied as early as possible to minimize pain and ensure the quickest healing time.
The Solution
Depending on your particular condition, Dr. Podaima will seek to apply any and all conservative care options to:
- relieve undue pressure on your joints (including discs),
- break up scar tissue in your muscles, ligaments and tendons,
- teach you how to lift properly and use your arms effectively to minimize strain on your body and finally
- teach you stabilizing exercises which will strengthen your body parts and render them more resilient to the demands of work.
If you are an industrial/trade worker and are experiencing pain due to either trauma or repetitive motion, please contact the clinic today at 482-4144.
