Ergonomics

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Working as a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), you wouldn’t think that ergonomics would be something to consider in the job description. I’ve been working as an SLP for 7 years without any difficulty with workplace ergonomics. Or so I thought! 
About 5-6 months ago I started having significant neck pain. At first, I chalked it up to sleeping on my neck wrong. But the pain was persisting and I started to feel it radiating down into my right elbow and hand. Two weeks went by and ibuprofen was just barley bringing down the pain. So it was off to my doctor!

After a thorough evaluation my doctor prescribed three things to me. Hydrocodone, a muscle relaxer, and physical therapy. I was incredibly fortunate to work with some amazing physical therapists at the hospital I work at so I knew the right people to go to.

During the assessment with my physical therapist, I almost cried just talking about the pain. Not because the pain was excruciating but because of how long and persistent this pain lasted. Nothing gave me complete relief! 

I completed my exercises multiple times a day and everyday. But I was still needing a pain reliever to keep the pain under control. I felt that there had to be a missing piece to the puzzle.

One of my fellow SLPs recommended to look at my ergonomics in my office. That was some of the best advice I could have received! I elevated my laptop with a laptop riser and I bought a wireless ergonomic friendly keyboard and mouse. Game changer! I continued my exercises for a period of time but eventually was able to stop them. I was able to 100% stop pain relieving medications and the muscle relaxers. Amazing!



I cannot believe that I waited 7 years to make such minor adjustments in my office. I would highly recommend looking into your own ergonomics and making adjustments, to reduce the risk of an injury like I had. I recently found out that my employer offers ergonomic assessments. Although I am currently feeling great, I have it on my things to do list to complete the assessment!

Interested in learning more about ergonomics? 
Check out these helpful websites below!

https://ergo-plus.com/office-ergonomics-10-tips-to-help-you-avoid-fatigue/

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/ergonomics/ 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/office-ergonomics/art-20046169 

https://d2officefurniturenyc.com/ergonomics-chairs-and-stretches/ 

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