Pilates for Construction Workers
Back Pain in Construction Workers
The Most Susceptible Workers
Construction workers are susceptible to extra stressors on their backs, joints, nerves and muscles.
Chronic lower back pain in construction workers is a serious matter.
What are the most common causes of back pain construction workers experience? What are some ways to prevent and alleviate back pain and the distress?
Causes of Back Pain in Construction Workers
Most injuries in construction workers are the result of sprains and strains of the muscles and injuries to the joints, bones and nerves.
A construction worker’s back is especially at risk because of:
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sudden movement
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lifting of heavy objects
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bending while lifting
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lifting with forceful movement
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repetitive lifting of awkwardly shaped items
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reaching and lifting
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twisting and lifting simultaneously (torque), especially from digging and shovelling
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whole body vibration from the use of heavy equipment, or from driving lift trucks, etc.
With any chronic back pain it is vital to see your doctor to obtain a diagnosis and recommendations for treatment. Once approved by your doctor, there are tips for lifting and stretching that could be helpful.
Lifting Tips
Be particularly cautious when digging, doing repetitive movement on one side, driving lift trucks and loading vehicles.
Place heavy items close to tailgate or doors and use truck loaders and bins when possible. Break items into smaller quantities before lifting.
Tighten stomach muscles and use the legs when lifting. Minimize the distance between your body and the item you are lifting.
If you wear a tool belt, make sure that the weight is evenly distributed. Get help lifting.
Get limber before you work
Some work sites are doing Pilates pre-work warm ups to increase circulation and decrease chances of injury. Suggest it at your site. A warm up program based on best ergonomics for construction workers. There are also Pilates classes available during lunch time and out of working hours.
Back support belts are often helpful in preventing or reducing back pain. Finding ways to de-stress and relax emotionally also contributes to a healthier back.
Study showed that workers subjected to the Pilates method showed improvement for flexibility, low back pain and postural attitude (survey of bus drivers and construction workers in Manaus (AM) - researcher Urban Master in Biology from the University Center Nilton Lins, Andrea Conceição Gomes Lima.
The finding comes from the study "Postural Diagnosis Associated with Physical Therapy Intervention with Pilates in Local Environment ', authored by researcher.
The study looked at 60 people who underwent physiotherapy consultation with questionnaires about clinical complaints, computerized postural evaluation, diagnosis of flexibility, pain characterization and evaluation of the work environment to identify possible physical problems of these workers.
During the research, workers used the Pilates method which techniques combine concentration, control, breathing, alignment, centralization. The method can also promote physical wellbeing and mental health.
The researcher also pointed out another positive result, which shows that in the workplace, there was improvement in the integration of these workers in coexistence with other colleagues. "All stressed the importance of caring for companies with employee health and felt more motivated and willing, due to the decrease in symptoms (pain) and lower levels of stress at work," he added.
The research also warns of the importance of caring cultural standards and lifestyle. "Modern life's population is increasingly imposing activities that overwhelm the human body. A high incidence of postural problems in adults is related to the tendency for this pattern of activity, specialized or repetitive," said Lima.
She noted that the construction workers and bus drivers develop their activities in adverse conditions, with mechanical loads and work environments that expose them to physical stress and environmental conditions associated with pre-established schedules and deadlines for completion of tasks and daily routine.
There are many reasons for the rise of the Pilates method today: health, body sculpting, endurance, improved mental focus, among others. Created by German Joseph Pilates during World War I, the dancers quickly fell in love with the method, who used it as a supplement to training.
On the issue of health, there are many studies that show the benefits of Pilates and influence in improving the quality of life of people who choose the method.
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