Common Office Health Problems
White collar positions or jobs in an office environment are often viewed as easy positions and the possible risks are often ignored. However, there are several health problems that are related to working in an office. Having healthy habits and being cautious of some of the most common office related health problems can prevent potential problems can boost productivity. Awareness is the first step to prevention.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common health risks that is associated with working in an office environment. it is a condition that affects the use of the some fine motor skills. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by the median nerve traveling through the carpal tunnel. When the median nerve is weakened, it causes pain and sometimes even numbness that may be felt from the arm to the neck range. Studies show that carpal tunnel syndrome is probably not preventable. However, there are methods of treatment for the condition. In some cases, carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated by medication or wearing a splint or a brace. In more severe cases, surgery is necessary to treat carpal tunnel syndrome.
Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain is also a common office related health problem. Lower back pain is a disorder of the musculoskeletal system. There are several classifications for the condition. While some people’s condition is minor, many others suffer from acute or chronic lower back pain. Such pain is a result of a sprain or strain in the muscles that are located in the back as well as the soft tissues. There are several ways to prevent lower back pain. One of the most common ways to prevent having lower back pain is by having a normal exercise routine. In addition to exercising, being a nonsmoker can also prevent problems with lower back pain. Fortunately, lower back pain can be solved with little treatment in some cases. Applying heat is a common way to treat the condition as well as sleeping on a firm mattress and cardiovascular exercise.
Eye Strain
Eye strain, also known as asthenopia is a condition that is usually recognized when an individual is suffering from headaches, blurred vision, pain around the eyes and in some cases double vision. Individuals who usually have symptoms of eye strain work closely with computers and do an extensive amount of reading or other activities that requires visual tasks. Regular eye exams are one way of preventing damage of the eyes. It is also important that when an individual has a job that requires eye strain that regular breaks are taken to give the eyes rest.
Bacteria
Surprisingly, bacteria in the work place is a major problem. A study from the University of Arizona showed that the amount of bacteria on common office items exceeded the amount found on a toilet. The highest amount of bacteria was found on phones, desks, water fountain handles, and keyboards. The bacteria build up is caused by a number of factors. The main factor is that many people eat lunches or other meals at their desks, and then rarely remember to disinfect afterward. Another cause can be from sick office workers. Now, with the increase in the amount of time people spend at their desk, the problem is escalating. The build up of bacteria can cause workers to become sick and lose productivity. In order to minimize the problem of bacteria, it is important to consistently sanitize the workspace, especially after eating, sneezing or after longer periods of working.
Stressful Situations
Although there are many causes of stress, working in an office environment is one of the most common. Deadline demands and high productivity expectations are only a couple of the causes that are results of the work place. There are many ways that stressful situations can be eliminated in the work place. Being prepared for tasks is one of the greatest ways to begin. In addition to being prepared for tasks at work, it is also necessary to get an adequate amount of rest. Stressful situations is an office environment can potentially lead to severe illnesses. Although stress is a part of everyday life, taking little steps to prevent stress can make a great difference.
The list of common office related health problems can go on. Being properly educated about the risks and preventive tips can put every individual on a great path to a having a long and healthy career in any work environment.