Reflection 7: Sparked by the ergonomics modules from week 7
Going through these modules was super straightforward and pretty interesting. As someone who used to sit down way too much for way to long, it was nice to finally put a name to some of the discomforts Iâve experienced. Learning about musculoskeletal disorder or MSDs was really fascinating, especially the office workplace aspect. Generally, when I think of soreness or injury involving muscles, joints, ligaments, etc. I would think the cause would be related to more labor-intensive work or activities. When I think of back pain, I would think that it would be a result of improper technique or prolonged pressure to carrying something during a labor job or when thinking about ligament injuries, I would think that they would be affected during intense sports like football or hockey. But the module does a good job showcasing how MSDs can affect all workplaces, even in the ones you wouldnât necessarily expect it to happen in. Â
The module shows you ways on how office workplace MSDs can happen and how to prevent them through a variety of methods. Focusing on âworkstationsâ specifically, the common cause of MSDs stems from your posture when working. Whether standing or sitting, your posture effects much of your body and can lead to discomfort or injury if done improperly or sustained for long periods of time. The easiest ways to prevent MSDs caused by posture is to switch position so that your spine is aligned differently or, one that I do naturally, is to take breaks from sitting or standing to allow your body to reset and alleviate pressure before continuing to work. The module also covers different workstation configurations and placements for desks, monitors, keyboards, etc. As a student whose âworkstationâ is generally just laptop, I find this part irrelevant for me, as I donât really get to choose my desk or chair height. Just stretch and take breaks once in a while. Â
Iâve been lucky enough to not really struggle with MSDs in my life. Growing up, most of my injuries have come from sports or other physical activities, but Iâve never had any occurring musculoskeletal pain. I did use to sit down a lot during the day a few years ago, but I guess I either switched positions or took breaks frequently enough that it didnât lead to any lasting effects. It’s something that I never really thought about before, so it was interesting to see the attention thatâs placed on it through this module. I have a fairly physical job and have a sport right now, so I usually stretch every day at least once, which probably helps a lot in preventing MSDs.