|
- Preventing sports injury: Some musculoskeletal problems associated with injuries may be preventable. Care should be taken in sports and physical activities to prevent injuries, sprains, and the overuse of joints, such as in the ankle, wrist, knee, shoulder, and spine. Individuals participating in sports activities such as football, swimming, gymnastics, baseball, basketball, tennis, skiing, wrestling, and soccer may be at a greater risk of developing musculoskeletal problems.
- Preventing occupational injury: Any job or activity that requires a fixed position over a long period of time can cause musculoskeletal discomfort. Poor job and workplace design appears to contribute to many reported discomforts. Important methods of preventing such discomfort include assuming a range of comfortable positions and having adjustable furniture, such as chairs, tables, and keyboard supports. However, the degree of adjustability for any furniture and visual display depends on how long and for what purpose they will be used. Prolonged work in the same position, whether seated or standing, can cause discomfort. Where possible, movement should be incorporated into the task to prevent discomfort and fatigue.
- It is best to avoid standing still in one place for long periods of time. The activity of the leg muscles acts as a pump and assists the veins in returning blood to the heart. Prolonged standing stops this pumping action and this may cause swelling of the lower extremities. Using a rubber or padded mat where prolonged standing cannot be avoided is recommended by healthcare providers. Mats help reduce fatigue and improve comfort. For those individuals who sit for long periods of time, a well-designed chair is very important.
- Dietary modification: Nutritional changes, along with the addition of supplements (vitamins, minerals and herbs), may be effective in reducing symptoms associated with musculoskeletal problems.
- It is best to limit caffeine and other stimulants, as well as alcohol, and to stop smoking. It may also be beneficial to eliminate potential food allergens, including dairy (milk, cheese and sour cream), eggs, nuts, shellfish, wheat (gluten), corn, preservatives, and food additives (such as dyes and fillers). Additionally, it may be helpful to avoid refined foods such as white breads and pastas and foods with high levels of sugar or refined sugar, such as donuts, pastries, candy, and soft drinks.
- Exercise: Maintaining physical fitness is important to those suffering from musculoskeletal problems. Those with musculoskeletal problems who exercise according to their healthcare professional's recommendations tend to do better, with less symptoms and a slower disease progression, than those who do not. A daily regimen of exercise can help the person feel better physically and mentally. Individuals should walk as much as possible, even if assistance is necessary.
- Regular exercise may also help individuals control their weight and decrease stress on the musculoskeletal system. There are many ways for people to exercise including gardening, walking, sports activities, and dancing. Individuals who are beginning an exercise program should choose activities that fit their levels of strength and endurance. The type of exercise is not as important as a consistent exercise schedule. Most experts today agree that burning calories should not be the goal of exercise. Exercise that causes extreme pain or discomfort is considered by many experts as unhealthy, and may even cause permanent damage to the body.
- Pilates is a body conditioning routine that seeks to build flexibility, strength, endurance, and coordination without adding muscle bulk. In addition, pilates may increase circulation and may help to sculpt the body and strengthen the body's "core" (torso). People who engage in pilates regularly report that they have better posture, are less prone to musculoskeletal injury, and experience better overall health.
- It is recommended for the patient to consult with their healthcare providers before beginning any exercise program.
 |
Learn
