A serious problem for the working class

A study was conducted on the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) among office workers in Singapore. 73.4% of 324 respondents  reported experiencing pain in at least one of the body parts. Highest reported pain body parts were neck (46%), shoulder (42%) and low back (42%). Higher prevalence of MSD found in females (78.8%) compared to males (63.9%) . (Source)

Because of the tremendous impact this condition has on the working class people. Musculoskeletal disorders are becoming a serious problem to modern day society.

Aches, pain and strains from musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) are some of the common conditions office workers face. Musculoskeletal disorders are typically characterized by discomfort, impairment and disability. They are also described to have persistent pains in joints, muscles, tendons or other soft tissues. 57% of all occupational injuries in the U.S is reported to be MSD. And because of its prevalence and high incident rates. MSDs are a major concern because of the negative impact on health and productivity of employees.  

MSDs have been reported for workers from a wide range of industries. Including office work, manufacturing, agriculture and numerous manual occupations. Musculoskeletal disorder can result in direct costs such as compensation and medical bills. Indirect costs can also occur, such as the compromise of quality and efficiency in work. This proves to be a significant problem for both employers and workers. This is why it is not only important but essential to equip yourself and your employees with the proper knowledge and practice. That way we lower the risks of any injury, and therefore improve productivity and efficiency. 

(SOURCE)

Causes of neck and shoulder pain

There is a wide range of factors that contribute to the overall pain conditions. Specifically for the neck and shoulder region. 

• Poor posture, muscle imbalances, weakness and misalignments
• Working at a desk for too long without changing positions.
• Muscle strains
• Rotator cuff strains
• Osteoarthritis
• Herniated disc
• Injuries
• Poor sleeping positions
• Jerking of your neck (whiplash)

Symptoms of neck and shoulder pain

Here are some signs you can look out for your neck pain:

• Radiating pain and/or numbness: This pain may radiate from your head, trunk, shoulder down to your arms. Numbness,tingling or weakness is typically a sign of compression on a nerve. A burning or sharp pain that starts at your neck and travels down to your arm. Is usually an indicator of a pinched nerve. 
• Stiff Neck: This form of neck pain decreases your range of motion.
• Headache: Gathered tension in your neck can produce a headache.This is a symptom for migraine headache as well. Neck pain with a headache may also be a symptom of a migraine headache.

• Sharp pain: This is usually the sign of a pinched nerve. Sharp pain is usually described as “stabbing” localised in one area. 

• Pain when moving: Movement such as twisting or extending your cervical spine, can exacerbate your neck pain.

Additionally, he notes that you should be aware of the following signs of shoulder pain:

• Inability to use the shoulder or move your arm away from your body
• Intense (even excruciating) pain
• Sudden swelling
• Unable to raise your hand

(SOURCE)

Good & Bad Posture

Bad posture

• Rounded upper back
• Head leaned forward
• Rounded shoulders forward

Good Posture

• Relaxed shoulders (pulled back)
• Open Chest
• Level head and ears at the level of the shoulders.

Other causes:

Other causes of neck pain include:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: causes pain, swelling of the joints, and bone spurs. 
• Fibromyalgia: Is a condition that causes muscle pain throughout the body, especially in the neck and shoulder region.
• Spondylosis: Also known as the osteoarthritis of the neck. Ageing causes the cervical disc to degenerate. This narrows the space between the vertebrae adding stress to joints.
• Slip Disc: When an injury occurs and the disc protrudes it may add pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. Also known as herniated cervical disc or ruptured disc.
• Spinal Stenosis: Occurs when the spinal column narrows from aging, causing pressure on the spinal cord. This can be from long-term inflammation caused by arthritis or other conditions.

Therapy Programs And Interventions:

• Lifestyle Modification

Our consultants will tailor a program, especially for you by diving into understanding your lifestyle. From your circadian cycle, and your diet to the physical demands of work that you go through. We will not only help you recover but also equip you with the tools necessary to prevent further aggravations in the future.

We will be able to provide therapy to correct any muscle tension and joint restrictions while prescribing the right exercises to support recovery. Such exercise will be able to help create good habits for the patient, as well as educate them through first-hand experience.

• Shockwave Therapy Intervention

A clinically advanced non-invasive equipment This intervention helps patients with pain by reducing joint inflammations. Improving muscle imbalances and creating healthy circulations for your joints. It also helps loosen scarred tissue from chronic muscular conditions and accidental harms.

• Nerve And Muscle Stimulation Therapy 

Neuromuscular Stimulation, otherwise known as the Nerve and Muscle Stimulation Therapy is a mode of pain management. It involves the passing of electrical impulses or currents through painful areas around the body. This method is effective because it interferes with the development of further pain symptoms or diseases. This is an effective way of interfering is through the deliberate pulsations made through the skin. By promoting an increase in local blood circulation, muscle rehabilitation is processed further with re-education through electrical muscle stimulation. As a result a reduction of muscle spasms and prevention of retarding disuse atrophy. Furthermore, it helps with maintenance and increases the range of motion. Specifically in the management of chronic pain, post-traumatic acute pain, and post-surgical acute pain.

• Innate Care: Turmeric Curcumin supplements

Innate Care: Turmeric Curcumin offers superior curcumin absorption compared to other turmeric brands. With its patented formula, it has the highest concentration of curcumin resulting in 48x more absorption. This helps with joint support, cartilage formation, anti-inflammation, liver detoxification, and cholesterol regulation.

• Innate Care: Physio Aid and Joint Health

With 11 essential ingredients, Innate Care Physio Aid Joint Health supplements maximizes the absorption of all essential nutrients into your joints and bones. Allowing a healthy growth of cartilage and bones. Containing antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients, you will face a reduction in joint inflammation and pain.