Take A Break

ERGONOMIC BREAKS OR MINI BREAKS

Rest is a key component in ensuring the performance of the musculoskeletal system. Frequent breaks can decrease the duration of a task and help lower the exposure to ergonomic injury risk.

The human body is always active while performing tasks at work. Even while seated, postural muscles are exerting tension to hold the mass of our upper body and head upright. Prolonged exertion can fatigue the muscles, which may lead to injury.

Improper workstation setup, along with certain processes, force people to maintain awkward postures and/or be exposed to compressive forces for long periods of time. Awkward postures and compression can impede the flow of blood, impinge nerves, and injure soft tissue.      

                          

Since 1950, the workplace has been recognized as a suitable space for the promotion of health and then in 1995 it was ratified by the World Health Organization, WHO and the International Labour Organization ILO. 

Active breaks have been one of the main tools of occupational health to promote physical activity focused on improving joint mobility, stretches and exercises that promote changes in position and decreased musculoskeletal loads longer maintenance positions and / or repetitive movements during workday.

  

BUT WHAT EXERCISES TO DO?

As its name implies, is an active pause a moment of activation allows dynamic change in work where you can combine a series of movements that activate the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, and cognitive system.

These stretching exercises are not provided to cure any existing problems but may help in preventing any future ones. Individuals with previous injury should consult with personal physician before performing these exercises on a routine basis. Always obtain medical consent prior to starting an exercise program.

Exercises and stretches can help decrease exposure to the risk of developing an ergonomic injury. Physical fitness is an important aspect in overall health, so exercise should be integrated into your workday and daily life. Some basic workstation exercises and stretches are showing below.

In the workplace or at home, every two hours stop what you are doing and for the space of about 5 to 10 minutes practice the following exercises 5 second each to both sides.

  

Johana Berbesi

Profesional advisor-Occupational Therapy