www.inl.gov

Injury PreventionPresented by:

Noelle M. Walker3/24/2011

iStretch

What is the program goal?Aims to improve the flexibility of employees. A series of DOM approved stretches are available for employees to use that will aid in achieving this company-wide goal. 

iStretch cont.• What are the benefits?

After a few months most people find that they:

- Have better posture

- Move more easily

- Improved balance

• Each of these factors aids in reducing the risk of slips, trips and falls

iStretch cont.Overview

• Completely voluntary (Supported by VPP Office)

• Simple exercises anyone can perform

• Safe and effective regimen

• Generally lead by a trained “Stretch Leader”

• Less than 10 minutes a day

iStretch cont.Stretch Break

• Forearm

• Shoulder

• 3-Point

• Triceps

• Calf

iBalance• What is the program goal?

To enhance employee spatial orientation through the routine practice of specific exercises.

• What are the benefits?Helps reduce the likelihood of injury by improving individual reaction time by allowing for more precise movement with less physical effort.

iBalance contProgram Overview

• 100% Voluntary

• Only requires a moderate level of muscular flexibility and upper body stability

• Recommended that iStretch training is used as a precursor to iBalance

iBalance contiBalance Break

• Single Leg Stand

• Cross body leg swing

iStrength• Goal

- To enhance employee muscular strength through the routine practice of approved exercises

• Overview

- Voluntary

- Use of Thera-bands

iStrength cont.• What are the benefits?

- Increased metabolic rate

- Increased bone mineral density

- Reductions in body fat

- Lowered resting blood pressure

- Others

Safe Lifting• Program Statement:

Preventing the occurrence of back injuries is a complex issue that requires the combining of several different approaches to form an integrative program that is scientifically justifiable

How much do you know about back pain? Q-1The most reliable predictor of future back

pain at the worksite is whether or not the employee enjoys his/her job.

True or False

FALSE

A common misinterpretation of the Boeing Back Study. The best predictor is present back pain or lost work in the last six months.

How much do you know about back pain? Q-2A stretching program implemented during

work is the most effective way to reduce back injuries.

True or False

FALSE

Stretching programs are designed to increase flexibility and is an important component of fitness but proper back mechanics is the most effective way to reduce back problems.

How much do you know about back pain? Q-3Lifting improperly or lifting too much weight

are the primary causes of back injuries.

True or False

FALSE

Not typically the primary cause but usually the event that aggravates the problem.

How much do you know about back pain? Q-4Most back pain is due to a specific injury.

True or False

FALSE

The majority of people who have back problems are unable to describe an associated incident or injury, but is the cumulative effect of many types of activities

How much do you know about back pain? Q-5Maintaining good flexibility and back

strength has been shown to be protective of future back problems

True or False

FALSE

Muscle endurance as opposed to overall back strength has been shown to be protective of future problems. As you fatigue, poor back mechanics result.

How much do you know about back pain? Q-6Most back injuries occur while picking up an

object off the ground.

True or False

FALSE

Twisting the torso appears to be the major biomechanical error.

Safe Lifting Cont.• What are the causes?

Individual• Lack of sleep

• Stress

• Emotional instability

• Lack of physical activity

• Poor muscle endurance

• Excessive weight

• Poor ergonomics

Occupational• Heavy physical work

• Static posture

• Frequent bending & twisting

• Pushing, pulling & lifting

• Repetitive work

• Slipping, tripping & falling

• Mental fatigue

Safe Lifting Cont.

Actions that can be taken to prevent back injuries

• Instruction on safe lifting techniques

• Improve physical fitness levels

• Learn stress reduction techniques

• Improve stability and balance

Safe Lifting Cont.

Standard Lifting Procedure

• Step One – Approach

• Step Two – Descent

• Step Three – Ascent

• Step Four - Transfer

Safe Lifting Cont.

Applying the Five “L’s”

• Lungs: Proper breathing

• Legs: Provide the strength

• Load: Know your limitations

• Lever: Manipulate internal/external levers to lighten the load

• Lordosis: Inward curvature of the spine

Questions or Comments