• repetitive or forceful movements
  
• heavy lifting or the moving of heavy objects
  
• poor ergonomics (workstation or equipment set up)
  
• poor posture
  
• exposure to vibration
  
• generally unsafe work environments

• prevent and minimise the incidence of musculo-skeletal disorders in the work place
  
• provide early access to physiotherapy assessment and treatment
  
• work with employers and employees to help patient’s stay at work or return as soon as possible
  
• encourage physical activity, good posture and self-management strategies at work and at home

On Site Treatment
Manchester Physio has experience of working alongside a wide range of businesses. On-site Physiotherapy is provided for organisations that would prefer their workers to be treated within workplace.

This approach to workplace injury management is cost effective as it reduces the amount of time the worker spends away from the workplace and, if required, can allow numerous employees to be seen in one session. An added benefit of on-site Physiotherapy is that quick and convenient feedback on the progress of workers can be given to employers or occupational health departments.

If workers are unable to work due to their injury Manchester Physio can arrange to see them at their home. Our experienced Physiotherapists will provide the best possible treatment, advice and adaptations to facilitate return to work in the shortest time possible. When the employee’s treatment is complete advice can be given regarding possible implementations and adaptations to prevent a reoccurrence of the injury, potentially minimising the risk of injury to other employees. This service can be provided to work alongside existing occupational health or medical services.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.

Ergonomic Work Station Assessments
Every year approximately 35% of the working population in the U.K. suffer from back pain with a further 17% complaining of aches in their arms and legs. Work-related musculo-skeletal problems cost the UK up to 6 billion pounds each year lost production.

Poor work station ergonomics cause many of the above problems. An ergonomic assessment gives the employee an individual workstation assessment and postural advice. The aim of the assessment is to identify and remove risk factors, minimising the risk of current or future health problems or reduced work performance. Risk factors may be related to working posture, the design or set up of the work area, equipment design, or simply the way in which the worker carries out a task.

Not only is it a legal necessity for employers to carry out workstation assessments (Health and Safety Display Screen Equipment Regulations 1992) but correct office ergonomics is proven to have a positive effect on the health of the workforce and is reflected in the company’s overall performance.

Manchester Physio provides on-site assessment and training in ergonomics. Individual workstation assessments, back care awareness classes and group manual handling training sessions can all be provided.

Assessment and Report
A Physiotherapist will spend 30-60 minutes with the employee and a report will be produced following the assessment. This report will highlight any problems identified by the assessor. The report will also provide recommendations for changes, if required, to work equipment (e.g. office chair, keyboard etc.), work-station lay-out, training or task design. A list of known suppliers and cost estimates will be provided wherever a change or alteration to equipment is advised.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.

Manual Handling Training
Manchester Physio provides manual handling sessions tailored to your individual needs, whatever the workplace. We can provide this legally required training over a broad range of professions from office workers to manual labourers to care home staff. Areas covered can be basic spinal anatomy and biomechanics, common types and mechanisms of manual handling injuries, the identification and reduction of risks during work practices and the demonstration and practice of basic handling techniques.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.

Posture and Back Care Classes
Manchester Physio provides group back care education and advice at the workplace. These sessions can be both educational and team building. The outcome of the classes can be designed around the requirements of the employer and employees. The classes would normally discuss the basic structure and biomechanics of the spine, potentially dangerous postures and explain why they are dangerous. Correct posture and body movement in standing and during handling is often demonstrated and practiced within the group. A programme of basic exercises can also be taught to continue with at work and home to improve spinal strength and flexibility. Employers often request that part of the class be spent discussing the management of common injuries within the particular workplace, such as acute lower back/neck pain.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.