There are a few settings where hand and wrist injuries can be especially common, and the workplace setting is one that’s not often considered here. If you’re dealing with hand or wrist issues you believe to be a result of issues with typing or other workplace activities, some basic attention to workplace ergonomics for hand health may be quite effective.
At ImPackt Physical Therapy, we’re proud to offer the best physical therapy services to patients around South Jordan, Riverton, and nearby areas of Utah, including for hand and wrist injuries of varying types and severities. We’re familiar with the common effects of the workplace on these areas, plus with important workplace ergonomics for hand health and how they can be beneficial. Here are some examples to consider if you deal with these issues in your office.
High-Risk Workplace Tasks That Often Lead to Hand and Wrist Injuries
There are a few different ways in which a workplace can be hazardous to the hands and wrists, with some specific tasks or activities being higher-risk than others. A brief list:
- Keyboard use: Naturally, major keyboard use tends to be one of the biggest culprits for hand and wrist pain, as well as other injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome. This is especially true if you’re typing for a long period of time each day or using a poorly designed keyboard.
- Manual labor: Factory work, building construction or demolition, and heavy lifting are all known to be hard on the hands and wrists. In fact, manual labor accounts for over half of occupational hand injuries.
- Repetitive motions: Even minor tasks like using scissors can cause problems when performed repeatedly throughout the day. This is because they put constant pressure on certain areas in your hands and can lead to strain or even nerve damage over time.
- Assembly work: Similar to manual labor, assembly workers are at risk for hand injuries due to the repetitive nature of their work. Assembling small components can lead to strain and overuse injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Potential Ergonomic Fixes
Here are some possible ergonomic fixes to hand and wrist injuries caused by workplace tasks:
Wrist Supports
Especially for those who type frequently, wrist supports can help keep your wrists in a neutral position and reduce strain on the tendons and nerves in your hands. This can also be helpful for assembly work or any task that requires repetitive movements.
Proper Desk Heights
Because some hand and wrist injuries at work are due to typing, it’s important to ensure that your desk is at a proper height. This will prevent you from having to stretch or strain your hands and wrists while typing.
Regular Breaks
It may sound counterintuitive, but taking regular breaks can actually increase productivity and reduce your risk of hand and wrist injuries. Taking short breaks every 20-30 minutes allows your muscles to rest and recover, preventing strain and fatigue.
Stretching Exercises
In addition to taking regular breaks, incorporating stretching exercises into your work routine can also help prevent hand and wrist injuries. Simple stretches like rotating your wrists or making a fist, followed by opening your fingers wide, can improve blood flow and reduce tension in the muscles.
In many cases, your physical therapist can show you ideal stretches or other strengthening routines.
Proper Posture
Maintaining proper posture while working is crucial for preventing hand and wrist injuries. Slouching or hunching over at your desk puts added strain on your hands and wrists as they have to compensate for the lack of support from your body.
To maintain good posture, sit with your feet flat on the ground and your back straight. Your arms should be at a 90-degree angle at the elbow while typing, with your wrists in a neutral position. You can also use an ergonomic chair or wrist rest to provide additional support.
Long-Term Benefits of Workplace Ergonomics for Hand Health and Productivity
Good ergonomics will also have long-term benefits for your hand health and overall productivity in the workplace. By implementing ergonomic practices, you can reduce the risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis.
Additionally, improved posture and reduced strain on your hands can lead to increased comfort and focus while working. This can result in higher productivity levels and a decrease in time off due to work-related injuries.
At ImPackt Physical Therapy, we’re here to help with any kind of hand and wrist injury around South Jordan, Riverton, or any nearby part of Utah. Contact us today to learn more about this or any other element of our physical therapy services!
