The UK Club’s Crew Health team have partnered with Red Square Medical to provide advice on musculoskeletal disorders to seafarers.
To begin with, musculoskeletal disorders is a term used when a person suffers from an injury or a repetitive activity that affects the body’s structural support system that allows for movement.
Musculoskeletal disorders is a term used when a person suffers from an injury or a repetitive activity that affects the body’s structural support system that allows for movement.
The following structures can be involved:
- Muscles – These are collections of fibrous tissues that have the ability to contract and relax to allow movement or to maintain the body’s position.
- Tendons – These attach muscles to bones and are made up of strong fibrous collagen tissue that is flexible but not stretchy.
- Ligaments – These short bands of tough, flexible fibrous connective tissue attach bone to bone or cartilage or hold joints together.
- Bones – A rigid structure that serves several purposes. They protect our internal organs, support the body structurally and allow us to move.
How to prevent injuries:
- All tasks that require manual handling will have had a risk assessment carried out. Make sure you read this and follow the instructions contained within it. Always ask if you are unsure.
- Personally risk assess the task you are about to perform. Ensure that you are not trying to lift or move something that will over exert you or put excessive strain on your musculoskeletal system.
- Look at different ways of moving/lifting things. Is there any equipment that could help you? Are there any extra people that could share the load?
- Give yourself as much space as possible to carry out the task.
- Avoid twisting whilst working with heavy loads.
- Make sure you take regular breaks away from your workstation and move your arms and legs.
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