AN influx of injuries are surfacing among employees who have worked from home the past two years.
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WorkSafe Victoria said it had at least 463 claims statewide for workplace injuries where claimants referenced working from home.
Physio Freedom director and physiotherapist Clifton Watt, based in Warrnambool in Victoria's south west, said he has seen a shift in the types of patients he was treating.
"Most sporting injuries dried up due to cancellation of all sports," but these patients were replaced by people with new injuries that caused by working from home," Mr Watt said.
He said the most common injuries were lower back, headaches, shoulder and neck pain.
"These injuries were usually caused by poor ergonomic set-ups, an increase in screen time including Zoom meetings, too much sitting and a lack of incidental movement during the day," Mr Watt said.
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He said stress, and worry about COVID-19 were also contributing factors.
Mr Watt said for those still working at home, set up an ergonomic workspace away from the bedroom or dining room using an adjustable office chair and desk at the correct height.
"In many instances a stand-up desk is beneficial and a separate keyboard and mouse if you are using a laptop so that you can ensure your screen is at the correct height and distance," he said.
He suggested taking regular breaks every hour by walking and stretching for five minutes.
Lillian Altman
Lillian is an experienced journalist who joined Warrnambool Standard in late 2021. She has a particular interest in writing stories on the arts and culture, health, education, breaking news, police stories, as well as human interest and profiles.
Lillian is an experienced journalist who joined Warrnambool Standard in late 2021. She has a particular interest in writing stories on the arts and culture, health, education, breaking news, police stories, as well as human interest and profiles.
