Chiropractic for construction workers

Construction workers are no stranger to long hours and aching joints. However, joint pain is not something you have to accept with the job. 

“I regularly see construction workers to help them with a number of aches and pains. Back, wrist and elbow injuries are common and chiropractic is effective at relieving pain and returning patients back to work quickly,” said chiropractor Dr. Shawn King. 

As musculoskeletal experts, chiropractors can treat a number of injuries and conditions, alleviating pain and helping to prevent further injury. This makes them an ideal health-care ally for people with particularly physical jobs. 

Common injuries construction workers experience

The top three conditions Dr. King sees construction workers for are:

1. Upper and lower back pain
   
   The main culprit for many patients' back pain is often improper lifting techniques. This is particularly prominent amongst construction workers due to the physical nature of their job. Do you experience back pain while lifting? Learn more about why that may be occurring in this blog post.
   
   
2. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), elbow and wrist injuries 
   
   Although CTS is typically associated with desk work, it is something Dr. King commonly sees in his construction workers patients. One reason for that is because of excessive power tools use, which can damage wrists and elbow joints due to improper handling and excessive vibration.
   
   
3. Poor body mechanics 
   
   We're all guilty of this and it's not your fault. Poor body mechanics often results from instances when you can't use a part of your body like you normally would, so you change how you move to compensate. Think about when you twist your ankle--your other ankle takes on the extra weight, increasing the risk of strain from overuse. Poor body mechanics also occur if you are moving your body in a way that it's not supposed to move, such as listing a heavy item with your back instead of your knees. 

Chiropractic treats pain and prevents it

The above conditions would stop anyone from living their life normally. Fortunately, chiropractic is a proven and effective treatment for these conditions. 

"Chiropractic treatments reduce pain and stiffness in the joints by restoring function to the body," stated Dr. King, "Manual adjustments are our most effective form of treatment, but every condition and patient is unique. Your chiropractor may recommend some other treatments, such as soft tissue mobilization and taping." 

Along with treating injuries and chronic pain, your chiropractor can help you prevent further injury through lifestyle changes that support your body in and out of work. 

"Simple, easy lifestyle changes can go a long way in preventing injury," explained Dr. King, "One example I suggest for some of my patient with CTS is to wear impact gloves. Impact gloves are great at reducing shock to your joints."

Other simple lifestyle changes you may want to consider are whether you need better footwear to support being on your feet for long hours of if you can introduce ergonomic equipment into some of your regular activities. 

Stretching decreases risk of injury

In general, Dr. King recommends doing warm-up and cool-down stretches before and after work. 

"Stretching is good for everyone, not just construction workers," said Dr. King, "Another great way to loosen tight muscles is with foam rolling. Just be sure to listen to your body and consult your chiropractor if you feel any pain."

Additional resources

Research on carpal tunnel syndrome
Research on work-related musculoskeletal disorders

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If it hurts, see a chiropractor. 

Stretching and gentle exercise may help some conditions but if your pain hasn't subsided after a few days, seek advice from a chiropractor. 

Chiropractors are highly educated and specially trained musculoskeletal experts. Your chiropractor can treat aches and pains, as well as build customized stretching routines and whole-body wellness strategies in conjunction with your chiropractic treatment. Consult with your chiropractor or find one near you.