Don’t be a Tool, See a Physio!

This August it’s National Tradies Health Month, a month to dedicated to educating Australian tradies on their health.

According to Safe Work Australia, the trade industry accounts for up to 58% of all serious Work Cover claims, yet only makes up less than 30% of the Australian workforce. Things have improved over the years with increased awareness and education, but this needs to change!

When off work due to injury, illness or poor health there is a significant impact – on families, businesses, communities, the health system and the economy. Without increased awareness and behaviour change, the problem will only continue to grow.

The resulting injuries include a variety of musculoskeletal injuries such as back pain and tendon/muscle injuries. These would be the main reasons a tradie would see a physiotherapist. However, physiotherapists assess, treat and manage a range of health conditions, from sports injuries through to chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes, exercise prescription and pelvic floor issues that many men face, but don’t talk about.

When it comes to workplace injuries it is important to:

1. Seek immediate medical attention – get to your GP!
2. Start physiotherapy ASAP
3. Work with your physiotherapist on your treatment plan to ensure you get back to work in a timely manner – the longer you are off work, the harder it can be to go back.

When it comes to pain, don’t ignore it the pain – see a physiotherapist. The sooner you seek treatment for your injuries, the sooner you can get back on your feet and get back to work!

Your Physiotherapist will diagnose your injury and provide you with exercises and recovery advice to avoid repeat injuries and persistent pain. When you get back on your feet you may want to consider a regular exercise program to help reduce stress, promote better sleep, increase your energy levels and keep your body strong and flexible for work and play!

#physiotherapy #rehab