At present, more than 100 million adults in the USA are living with chronic pain according to the the US-HHS. Many instances of chronic pain can be attributed to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Due to the nature of the daily tasks they perform, nurses and midwives are at a heightened risk of these disorders. Some of the most common WMSDs found among healthcare workers include tendonitis, thoracic outlet syndrome, tension neck syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome, and chronic lower back pain. Here are a few tips for managing chronic pain as a healthcare worker.
Lower back pain is common among nursing staff
According to research findings published by the National Institutes of Health, lower back pain (LBP) is one of the most prevalent occupational health concerns in nursing staff. If neglected, lower back pain can result in severe anguish as well as long-term disability among nurses. Additionally, chronic pain can also need emotional concerns which can have a negative impact on the individual’s ability to perform their duties as well as their overall quality of life. In order to decrease the prevalence of chronic pain in nurses, it is vital to identify the cause. Very often, it occurs as a result of recurring strain injuries caused by the lifting and moving of patients and medical equipment.
Prevention is better than management
Preventing pain from setting in is always better than trying to manage it. There are a number of things healthcare workers can do to reduce their risk of contracting chronic LBP. Nurses who stay in shape are less likely to get hurt thanks to increased muscle strength and flexibility. They should also be encouraged to use good body mechanics which entails bending their knees when they do heavy lifting and using their legs instead of their backs.
Even physically fit healthcare workers should make use of a transfer board or enlist the help of someone else when transferring heavy patients. Wearing comfortable, supportive shoes can also help decrease the pressure on the back, thus lowering the risk of long-term back pain. Although chronic pain is often associated with older individuals, it is not fastidious. Nursing students and other young healthcare workers who are deemed the future of medicine also need to take the necessary precautions to prevent them from damaging their backs.
Managing chronic LBP while on duty
Getting through a long shift while in constant pain can be absolutely grueling. While analgesics and anti-inflammatories can make the pain more bearable, they often come with their own undesirable side-effects. Maintaining a good posture while on duty can not only prevent the onset of chronic LBP but help ease existing discomfort as well. Engaging in a range of stretching and flexibility exercises during your breaks can also help bring relief. It is important to only do exercises that are prescribed by a doctor or physical therapist as you may end up injuring yourself even further.
LBP is becoming increasingly common among nurses and other healthcare workers. Thankfully, there are a number of ways to not only prevent it from setting in but easing it while on duty as well.
by Chrissy Philips
