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Ergonomics:

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Ergonomics

Part I.

Introduction

Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders

Tendon, muscle, and nerve uncomfortable illnesses are grouped as work-related

musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Arm and hand motions such as stretching, flexing,

grasping, clutching, turning, squeezing, and thrusting can cause WMSDs. These typical

movements are not particularly detrimental to the routine tasks of daily life. Work patterns that

involve fixed or confined body positions, prolonged static, pressure centered on tiny parts of the

body, such as the wrist or hand, and a tempo of activity that does not provide enough time for

recovery between motions are linked to WMSDs. The structures involved in thoracic outlet

syndrome, a collection of conditions that develop when the thoracic outlet, which is the area

between the clavicle and first rib, is squeezed, will be covered in this essay, as well as some of

the disorder's effects.

Structures Involved and the Consequences of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

The subclavian vein, subclavian artery, and brachial plexus are some structures linked

with thoracic outlet syndrome. Pressure in this region results in various clinical manifestations,

including discomfort, stiffness, numbness or tingling, lack of strength in the upper spine, and

muscle damage (Jones et al., 2019).

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Causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and Specific Changes to be made to the

Workstation to Stop its Occurrence

Thoracic outlet syndrome is most frequently caused by extended repeated duties,

not working out of a neutral posture, and repetitive motions. When a task is repetitive, it is being

done while employing the same joints and muscle groups. Additionally, the posture is kept

awkward or still. Both the vibration and using excessive force, workers can suffer ergonomic

injuries in any field, while some jobs have a disproportionately high risk. Being well-informed

on the different types of ergonomic disorders and their causes is the first step in preventing the

emergence of such work-related health issues. In light of this, the body works best when we are

relaxed.

All musculature is lined up in a relaxed state, which is a comfortable posture (Jones et al.,

2019). When working in neutrality, the body experiences less strain on its skeleton system,

tendons, and muscles, lowering the chance of sustaining muscle soreness. All they have to do is

arrange their body in an "L." Resist snapping your side or tilting your head backward or

sideways. Keep it square with your spine. To make a required angle, position the pelvis slightly

above the calves. As a result, the joints will not be put through strain anymore. One should flex

their legs at right angles to stabilize their triceps. The ankles should always be two to three

inches apart from the edge of the chair when sitting. Switching tasks frequently will help one

avoid repetitive strain disorders since, at the end of each hour, one will work for a wholly distinct

body part. Doing this might maintain their work performance while their joints heal. Any

intuitive tools that are accessible to experts should be used. A few simple components that can be

added to a workspace to reduce the risk of injury from isometric exercises are helmets, screen

attachments, and adjustable seating.

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Things to Avoid in Workstation

Stay away from uncomfortable positions while working and move around often. Keeping

the project one is working on close to hand is crucial. In particular, make an effort to have things

close to hand. One does not have to bend to get to the task, and the posture stays more neutral.

Maintain the optimal site if you stutter, focusing on a celestial body that cannot be relocated

nearer to oneself. Switch sides, flex the limbs, and take rests. As per the study, a laborer is more

likely to incur muscle soreness when the body is in a standing posture for a lengthy period

(Ribeiro, Serranheira & Loureiro, 2017). Extended inactivity can lead to chronic illnesses such as

clinical manifestations and muscle breakdown.

Part II.

How the fitness of a worker in the workstation is affected by height and weight

My body type is suitable for people at least 20 years old, and the proportion of the

population indicated in the chart that I would fit in is 65.2. The working height must be

adjustable to tailor the workplace to the worker's specific body size and needs. The worker can

select from a range of well-balanced working positions and switch between these positions, often

in a well-designed workplace. Retractable workstations and chairs are ideal. It is crucial to adjust

the working height so that the workstation can accommodate each employee's unique body type

and job-specific needs.

The ability to finish work with the proper body position is made possible by versatility. If

the workstation cannot be modified, pedestals on top of workstations for the tall worker or stands

to hoist the shorter worker should be considered. The layout of the workspace is another

important factor. There should be enough room for movement and changing body positions.
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Working at elbow height is often a good idea, whether seated or standing. Remember that the

task should be at elbow height, not the work surface.

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References

Jones, M. R., Prabhakar, A., Viswanath, O., Urits, I., Green, J. B., Kendrick, J. B., ... & Kaye, A.

D. (2019). Thoracic outlet syndrome: a comprehensive review of pathophysiology,

diagnosis, and treatment. Pain and therapy, 8, 5-18.

Ribeiro, T., Serranheira, F., & Loureiro, H. (2017). Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in

primary health care nurses. Applied nursing research, 33, 72-77.