Research-Based Sports Medicine in Manhattan
At Manhattan Sports Therapy we are dedicated not only to providing pain-relieving therapies, but also preventing injuries from occurring in the first place. As a New York physical therapist, Dr. Miro stresses the importance of healthy habits that preserve the natural function of joints, muscles, and other soft tissue. Patients often integrate these strategies into their active pursuits but overlook them in other day to day activities. For example, adults spend a great deal of time at work. The way we work, especially in regards to repetitive tasks, can have a significant health impact on our body, both in the short and long term.
What Is Ergonomics?
Ergonomics can encompass a wide range of workplace safety factors. Dr. Miro instructs patients on how workstations and work tasks can be improved for optimal prevention of injury or strain to the musculoskeletal system. For patients with existing conditions, various modifications can be made to help reduce pain, avoid further injury, and maintain productivity.
What Are Common Ergonomic Risk Factors?
Ergonomic issues are present in nearly all jobs, regardless of the level of strenuous activity involved. Jobs requiring any of these functions can cause injury or strain to joints and muscles:
- The prolonged exertion of hands, particularly if repetitive and forceful
- Office work that requires sitting at a desk all day
- Frequent heavy lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling
- Awkward postures maintained for long periods of time
- Exposure to cold conditions or constant vibration
Proven Treatments, Happy Patients
I found Dr. Rolland Miro through a web search, and it turned out to be the best decision I’d ever made. It took less than a month of treatment before my headaches stopped and my running shoes were back on. By the end of 4 months, my symptoms were completely gone – I NEVER thought that would happen! Dr. Rolland knew exactly what he was doing and helped me more than I ever thought possible.
Tips for Optimizing Workplace Conditions
If you spend long periods of time at a desk, consider this ergonomic checklist to protect your muscles and joints:
- Pay Attention to Posture
- Avoid leaning forward over desk; move keyboard and monitor closer
- Keep wrists at a neutral angle; wrists supports may help/
- Place monitor straight in front of you or turn chair to align your head with your monitor to avoid twisting your neck
- Adjust Your Chair
- Find the right chair height to allow arms and wrists to rest at the keyboard in a neutral position
- Allow two inches of space between the back of your knees and the edge of your seat
- Adjust backrest for lower back support; add a pillow or foam roll if needed
- Make Sure You See Clearly:
- Be sure monitor is at a comfortable distance to see clearly without straining
- Adjust monitor or chair height so first line of text is just below eye level
- Adjust lighting and monitor placement to minimize glare
- Keep screen clean and set contrast and brightness to your comfort level
- Use a document holder close to screen to avoid repetitive neck movement and strain
For patients with more actively demanding job functions, Dr. Miro can work with you to assess the duties you perform and recommend improvements or modifications that can help you avoid strain and prevent discomfort. Ready to talk to a Manhattan sports medicine expert? Contact our office now.