In our line of business back aches and pains can make it very difficult to concentrate while at work. Our jobs can put significant demands on our backs throughout the day.  Can you avoid back pain and injuries at work? The answer is “YES” if you understand what causes these injuries and how to prevent them.

If you ask a doctor what causes back pain they are never 100% sure. They will ask what you do throughout your day and family history and generally will tell you that a combination of the things you do throughout your day and your history may be a cause of your back aches and pains. Not all of these factors are preventable. 

What factors are preventable?

The factors that we can control are the weight of objects we are lifting. We are in control of our own fitness routines and flexibility. If we change our lifestyle and incorporate some stretching and exercise we will strengthen our back and help reduce work related injuries.

While at work you will need to look at what you do and you will need to see if you need to modify your work performance to help reduce these risks.

 There are 4 factors that can increase your risk of back aches and injuries.

            Force- Are you over-exerting yourself?

            Repetition- How many times during your day do you do the same thing over and over? Repetition can lead to fatigue in your muscles which can lead to injuries.

            Posture- This refers to how are standing, sitting or performing a task.

            Stress- Your stress level at work or home can lead to muscle tension and tightness which can result in back aches and pains.

A combination of one or more these four risks can result in serious back injuries.

To help reduce Back Aches and Pains you should first be fit. You can do specific strengthening and stretching exercises that target you back muscles. By doing this you will strengthen your cores muscles and make your back stronger. Strong and flexible muscles will help keep your back in shape. 

Secondly, you want to pay attention to your posture. If you have poor posture you will put stress on your back. So pay attention to how you are standing and sitting while at work and at home.

Finally, you want to make sure that you are lifting properly. You want to make sure that you are following the lifting procedures that are outlined in our Job Safety Agreement.  Always remember to let your legs do the work and keep all items close to your body.

By adjusting what you do at work and adopting healthy habits you can reduce back aches and pains and you will feel better over all.

Before you lift an object remember to plan your moves and listen to your body.  If your body tells you that an object is too heavy, do not lift it, ask for help.

Be Safe and Be Healthy!!!!

Orange County started off the month of March with one of the most successful tournaments in Champion Tour history—The Toshiba Classic. The tournament was held March 1st through the 7th in Newport Beach and Minuteman was happy to be a part of the event by providing complimentary off-site shuttles for the seven days. Over the past twelve years, the Toshiba Classic has raised $12 million for its primary beneficiary, Hoag Memorial Hospital, as well as other charities around Orange County.

This year, the Toshiba Classic went “green on the green” and offered the community an easy way to dispose of their e-waste. Guests were able to bring their outdated electronic equipment over the weekend in exchange for two complimentary tickets good for any one day of the tournament. This “Swing for the Green” event has given Orange County residents a responsible way to recycle their old and outdated electronics.

Another fun filled event that was held during the week was the Charles Schwab Family Day on Saturday March 6th. Golf tour legends Fuzzy Zoeller and Andy Bean provided complimentary golf lessons at the Newport Beach Country Club driving range. Underprivileged children from various Orange County community organizations were given the opportunity to participate in the golf clinic. The event was a great way for children and their families to enjoy the weekend and participate in the game of golf.