In view of the impending Mother’s Day, this reporter had identified some health issues commonly faced by mothers and consulted experts on how to care for them.
Women’s health physiotherapy is a specialized branch of physiotherapy that focuses on addressing the unique healthcare needs of women across their lifespan. In recent years, the recognition of the importance of women’s health physiotherapy has grown significantly, as healthcare professionals and policymakers alike acknowledge the need for comprehensive, holistic care that addresses women’s physical, emotional, and social well-being.
As mothers, many of them care for their family and tend to ignore their own needs. One can read these and keep in mind and help them when needed.
Dr. Dziesebeinuo Khezhie (PT), a consultant physiotherapist at Putuonuo Hospital Kohima BPT, MPT Obs and Gyeac talked about two most common problems consulted upon.
One of the most common musculoskeletal disorders among Naga women is “low back pain due to poor ergonomics” which can be debilitating and have a profound impact on daily life, work productivity, and overall well-being.
Common occupations among Naga women leading to increased risk of developing low back pain.
- Agriculture is a significant source of employment among Naga women, with workers engaged in various tasks such as planting, harvesting, and livestock handling. These activities often involve strenuous physical exertion, prolonged periods of bending or squatting, and exposure to environmental hazards.
- Naga women engaged in artisanal crafts, including weaving, woodcarving, pottery, and basketry can lead to repetitive strain leading to back pain.
- Construction workers often engage in tasks that require heavy lifting, bending, and carrying of materials. They may also spend long hours on their feet, operating heavy machinery or performing manual labour, all of which can place excessive strain on the muscles of the back.
- In urban centres in Nagaland, where commercial activities thrive, workplace ergonomics is of paramount importance, many workers spend long hours seated at desks or engaged in repetitive tasks, increasing their risk of developing musculoskeletal problems.
- Retail workers often spend long hours on their feet, assisting customers, stocking shelves, and moving merchandise. Tasks such as lifting heavy boxes, bending to retrieve items from low shelves, or standing in one position for extended periods can contribute to muscle strain and discomfort in the lower back.
- Beyond the workplace, home maker may also experience back pain due to poor ergonomics in their home environments. Activities such as prolonged sitting while watching television, improper lifting of heavy objects, and poor sleeping posture can contribute to back pain and discomfort.
- Healthcare workers are frequently required to lift and transfer patients, as well as stand for extended periods during patient care activities which can lead to muscle fatigue and back strain.
Approaches to Ergonomics treatment - Focus on maintaining good posture while sitting, standing, walking, and lifting objects.
- Incorporate stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine to address muscle imbalances and improve flexibility.
- Ergonomics interventions, such as training in proper lifting techniques, use of lifting aids and assistive devices, and implementation of ergonomic work practices, can help mitigate the risk of back injuries and musculoskeletal strain in these occupations.
- By opitimizing workstation ergonomics through the use of adjustable furniture, ergonomic chairs, and proper desk setup, middle-class workers can reduce the risk of developing back pain and maintain spinal health during prolonged periods of sitting.
- Consistently practice good posture habits throughout the day, even when you’re not actively thinking about it. Over time, these habits will become more automatic and natural.
Embracing ergonomic care is not only a means of preventing injuries and promoting efficiency but also a reflection of Nagaland’s commitment to nurturing a healthy and thriving society for generations to come.