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Anderson Ergonomics Consulting Inc. is a Calgary-based full-service Ergonomics consulting company, with over 20 years providing ergonomics expertise in work station assessments, training, and program development.
Our mission is to provide customers with expert, value-added ergonomic services to create safer workplaces, more productive and healthier employees.
Our monthly newsletter provides you with valuable information and tips to help reduce workplace injuries and claims costs while making you feel better at work and home. If you find this informative,  . If you'd like to contribute, let us know. Please visit our website for more information. |
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Sebrina Fystro Has a Baby Boy!! | | Hudson Aaron Fystro was born on July 19th, 2010. Weighing 8 lbs 12 oz and 19.5" long, he was overdue, and much welcomed when he arrived. Sebrina, Hudson, and his daddy are all doing excellent!
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Ergonomics Behind the Wheel |
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Vacation Driving Can Contribute to the Development of Repetitive Strain Injuries |
Sitting in a moving vehicle can be hazardous to your health and can contribute to the development of Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs). Typical problems from driving inculde neck, back and shoulder pain, cramps, poor circulation in the legs and buttocks and a long-term potential for degeneration of spinal discs and disc herniation.
Pain and injury is preventable. The first step is to recognize the risk factors in your daily vacation activities. The main risk factors for developing RSIs include awkward postures (i.e. leaning to side on armrest or door), excessive force (i.e. sitting on wallet), vibration (i.e. vehicle vibration), repetition (i.e. forward reaching to access the steering wheel) and long duration activities (i.e. sitting for more than 2 hours continuously).
To identify whether your are at risk of RSIs when driving, ask yourself the following questions:
1. Do I slouch when I drive?
2. Is my low back supported properly?
3. Am I driving for more than 2 hours at a time without taking a break?
4. Do I stay in the same position for extended periods of time?
5. Am I bending and twisting to lift things out of my vehicle (i.e. suitcases)?
6. Do I lift heavy items out of my vehicle (i.e. suitcases, car seats, etc)?
7. Is the vehicle maintenance contributing to excessive vibration?
8. Am I pushing and/or pulling heavy items soon after driving (i.e. strollers)?
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Product Review: Obus Forme Support Cushion | |
If your vehicle is not equipped with lumbar technology or you find it insufficient, you should consider using a small narrow cushion or a rolled up towel to help support your low back in a curved position. Anderson Ergonomics Consulting sells a small one (11" long, 5" wide and 2" deep) that works very well for most people.
You could also consider using an Obus Forme Lowback Backrest Support. The Obus Forme Lowback Backrest Support comes with a Velcro-backed Lumbar Cushion that can be moved to hit just the right spot. It quickly attaches to any seat. Information: Obus Forme Lowback Backrest Support measures 17-1/2W x 20"H. Choose Black, Gray or Tan.
Obus Forme Lowback Backrest Support |
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Featured Stretches: Lumbar Press & Lumbar Arch | |
Lumbar Press Lumbar Arch
Please ensure that you are capable of doing these stretches safely prior to trying them in a moving vehicle.
These stretches are for your benefit to increase your flexibility and comfort. You may feel tension and tightness while performing these stretches, but you should not feel pain. If you feel pain, back off the stretches a little until they feel more comfortable. If you have a current injury or feel uncomfortable doing either of these stretches, please check with your caregiver prior to continuing these exercises to ensure they are appropriate for you.
Lumbar Press Instruction: While sitting, press your lower back (lumbar area) into the seat, rounding your spine forward. Hold for 5-10 seconds. Relax and repeat twice more.
Lumbar Arch Instruction: While sitting up straight, arch your lower back, exaggerating the lumbar curve. Hold for 5-10 seconds. Relax and repeat twice more.
These are extremely beneficial stretches for your lower back when you are unable to stand and stretch. They are a great way to change your posture and help to prevent a repetitive strain injury from occuring.
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Monthly Tip: Driver Injury Prevention Plan |
1. Drive Safe, Be Aware
2. Adjust your lumbar support to fit your low back. If your vehicle is not equipped with lumbar technology consider using a portable lumbar support to help support your low back in a curved position
3. Remove your wallet from your back pocket
4. Tilt your seat back rest to approximately 110 degrees. Tilting your seat too far forward may increase the strain on your low back; tilting it too far back could increase the strain on your shoulders as it will cause you to reach further forward to access the steering wheel
5. Stop the vehicle every 2 hours and take a 15 minute break from sitting to stand up and walk around
6. Exit your vehicle without twisting your back
7. Avoid lifting immediately after a long drive. Sitting causes the ligaments that support your spine to stretch and the discs in your back to move out of their optimal position. Wait at least 2-3 minutes before lifting anything after a long drive to help reduce the chance of straining your back
8. STRETCH
9. Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained to minimize vibration |
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