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Outpacing Pain in the Workplace

More and more workers in the United States and Canada are sitting for a long time at a computer. About two-thirds of the workforce in North America have jobs that require sitting for most of the work day. Studies have shown that long periods of time in front of a computer screen and sitting without moving result in muscle pain and problems.

One group is at great risk for these problems. People who work as directory assistance operators do not control their own rate or pace of work. Calls are controlled by the computer, and the screen flashes when calls are waiting. This is called electronic pacing. Electronic pacing sets up a conflict between the need to take exercise breaks and the need to keep up work.

Studies have shown that workplace exercise programs reduce muscle pain and physical discomfort. The benefits can be felt in as little time as one week. Researchers found that even with the employer's approval, many workers still didn't take the time to do the exercises. This is common when work is paced and workers feel pressured by time.

Employers, unions, and workers need to find ways to help workers stretch and exercise on the job. This will help reduce muscular and work-related physical problems. Two to four stretches lasting five to 10 seconds each should be done every hour. A stretch break of one to two minutes should be added once a day. For workers who are electronically paced, a computer program can be used that includes reminders and pauses to do these exercises.

References: Anne Fenety, PT, PhD, and Joan M. Walker, PT, PhD. Short-Term Effects of Workstation Exercises on Musculoskeletal Discomfort and Postural Changes in Seated Video Display Unit Workers. In Physical Therapy. June 2002. Vol. 82. No. 6. Pp. 578-589.

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