Tradies’ Health Challenges
Recent surveys of tradies across the country have highlighted some concerning trends:
- Over 90% of tradies experienced work-related injuries or pain in the past year, with these injuries often caused or worsened by work activities.
- 76% reported that pain significantly impacts their quality of life.
- 42% described their pain as severe, with some suffering for months or even years.
- 87% use medication or self-medicate to manage pain, with 30% turning to drugs or alcohol.
- 24% worry they may need to retire early due to the physical stress of their job.
- Nearly two-thirds of those who have seen a physiotherapist reported significant pain reduction or elimination.
Why Tradies Need Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy can be a game-changer for tradies, especially for persistent issues like back, knee, and shoulder pain. Here’s how physiotherapy can make a difference:
- Prevent Injuries: Physiotherapists teach proper techniques to work safely and avoid common injuries.
- Early Intervention: Addressing pain early helps prevent chronic issues and long-term complications.
- Enhance Quality of Life: Effective pain management enables you to stay productive and enjoy your daily activities.
- Adapt with Age: Physiotherapy helps adjust work habits as your body ages, reducing injury risk and extending your career.
What Are Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)?
MSDs involve injuries or diseases of the musculoskeletal system, which includes muscles, bones, joints, and connective tissues. Common MSDs include:
- Sprains and Strains: Injuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
- Back Injuries: Problems like herniated discs or muscle strains.
- Joint and Bone Injuries: Damage or degeneration of joints and bones.
- Nerve Injuries: Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Such as hernias.
- Chronic and Acute Pain: Pain lasting longer or shorter than three months, respectively.
How Do MSDs Happen?
MSDs can develop gradually through repetitive movements or static positions, or suddenly due to strenuous activity or unexpected movements.
Managing Hazardous Manual Tasks
Hazardous manual tasks can increase MSD risk and include:
- Repetitive Movement: Frequent, repetitive actions.
- Repetitive or Sustained Force: Applying force repeatedly or for extended periods.
- High or Sudden Force: Engaging in activities requiring significant force.
- Sustained or Awkward Postures: Maintaining uncomfortable body positions.
- Exposure to Vibration: Using tools that produce vibrations.
Preventing MSDs: Key Strategies
- Identify Hazardous Tasks: Recognize tasks that may put you at risk.
- Eliminate or Minimize Risks: Redesign tasks to avoid hazards or implement control measures if elimination isn’t possible.
Control Measures for Hazardous Manual Tasks
If risks can’t be eliminated, consider these measures:
- Redesign Work Areas: Arrange workspaces to minimize awkward postures and manual handling.
- Adjust Workspace Heights: Ensure work surfaces are at an appropriate height.
- Use Mechanical Aids: Employ tools to assist with lifting and carrying.
- Rotate Tasks: Share manual handling tasks among workers to reduce strain.
- Training: Educate workers on proper manual handling techniques.
Get In Touch
If you have any questions about MSDs or need advice on managing risks or getting rehabilitation under work cover, private health insurance, or Enhanced Primary Care (Medicare), contact us! We’re here to help you stay healthy and productive.
