Cumulative Trauma Disorders Recognition and Prevention in the

Cumulative Trauma Disorders Recognition and Prevention in the Workplace

Common CTD’s n Carpal Tunnel Syndrome-Injury to the median nerve. n Tendonitis-Swelling of the tendons. n Tenosynovitis-Swelling in tendon sheath.

Other CTD’s n Shoulder & Arm Pain n Neck Pain n Lower Back Pain n Ischemia- Restriction of blood flow in tissues

Common Causes of CTD’s n Awkward Positions n Excessive Manual Force n Repetition

My Personal Workstation My workstation includes two desks, two chairs, two computers with a mouse and keyboard, one phone, and two printers.

Potential Problems In My Workspace n Keyboard & Mouse- I use both input devices for extended periods of time. Neither has a wrist rest, which helps keep my palms from resting on the edge of the desk and my wrists out of the flexion position.

Potential Problems n Desk-The desk is about 3 feet tall with a wood laminate top with slightly rounded edges. Because the edges are still relatively sharp, leaning against them could pinch a nerve or restrict blood flow through the tissues

Potential Problems n Chairs-The chairs have wheels, are slightly cushioned, and are not adjustable in any way. The chair is also about one foot shorter than the desk. The chair does not support the back, forces the arms, wrists and shoulders into tense and awkward positions.

Preventative Measures Recognizing and Educating Myself About Potential Problems

Recognize The Warning Signs

Warning Signs Numbness and tingling in first three fingers n Clumsy feeling in your hand n Pain going up into the elbow or shoulder n Pain is worse at night n

SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY and use….

Alternative Work Methods n Evaluate Work Area n Awkward positions caused by certain items and work practices in can be prevented. n Take Periodic rests and Stretch n Trying to do too much at one time can cause muscles to tire and cause injury

Environment Adjustment n Replace Existing Equipment-The desks should have rounded edges to reduce possible pressure points. The chairs need the arm height and chair height to be adjustable, and give back support by having a tilt adjustment.

Environment Adjustment n Add Accessories to Existing Equipment. Wrist rests can be added to the keyboards and mouse to help promote a neutral wrist position. An adjustable document holder can be attached to the monitor to promote the proper head angle. A seat cushion can be added to the chair to help support the back. A footrest can be used to help keep thighs parallel to the ground and promote good posture to help prevent back, neck and shoulder pain.

Education, New Equipment and Preventative Measures All Add Up To A Safer and Ergonomically Correct Work Environment