Don't let teaching cripple you : how to avoid back pain in the classroom

Authors

M Dean

Abstract

The bad news is that teaching is a pain in the back. Eighty per cent of teachers suffer from back pain at some point in their lives and teaching remains a high-risk occupation for musculoskeletal injuries. Three potentially risky tasks in teaching are lifting - books, chairs, tables and the like; bending down to talk to students; and setting at a desk. All are risky because they can lead to slouching. Other problems include the psychosocial risk of stress - the psychological responses to work and workplace conditions. The good news? Some simple actions can help teachers address or avoid back injuries altogether. The author explains strategies such as proper lifting and handling, fitness and stretching exercises. [Author abstract, ed]

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