Pre work stretching programs

Once implemented, some of these programs can quickly fall by the wayside and therefore would not provide the positive impact in which they were intended. Some companies believe that implementing a pre-shift stretching program will suddenly reduce the incidents of musculoskeletal injuries and lost work time. This is a knee jerk response to implement something that may not be the best and safest solution.

In order to provide a more beneficial approach to reducing WMSD's it is important to consider a comprehensive injury prevention program. Currently, there is limited scientific evidence in this area that can assist companies in determining if a pre-shift stretching program would be beneficial. More research needs to be conducted on this matter to determine the benefits. Below are some of the key points in implementing a successful pre-shift stretching program on-site.

Pre-shift stretching programs have their limitations. Occucare is an industry leader in providing corporations with comprehensive injury prevention programs. Our highly trained clinicians have over 30 years of combined experience in treating the injured worker and providing companies with comprehensive injury prevention programs that reduce your workers' compensation claims costs.

Contact OccuCare at info occucare. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy Terms of Use. Contact Us. Blog News White Papers. Pre-Shift Stretching Programs: Do they really reduce your work-related injuries? In my experience, it is crucial to have management believe in the program and provide continuous support. Without this, it will be an uphill struggle to have a successful program.

A walk-through of the company plant and discussion of the types of essential functions, physical demands, and frequency of tasks as they pertain to the jobs, are of importance. This information is beneficial in development of the stretching program.

Avoid putting together pre-shift stretching programs with little knowledge of the body movements and task demands of the jobs. Only a properly designed program will insure that your team members are effectively prepared to perform the demands of their job. Once you have buy-in from your management team, their commitment to pre work stretching needs to be communicated through all levels of the organization. Not only do you need a communication plan, you need a training and marketing plan for this initiative as well.

Yes, marketing is key! High participation rates are achieved when team members fully understand the benefits of the program.

In addition, each warm-up exercise should be demonstrated and proper technique should be emphasized. The execution of your program will depend on the size and structure of your workplace. Most often, warm-up stretching can be done in conjunction with department start-up meetings and led by supervisors or carefully selected hourly team members.

Certain supervisors and hourly team members are very capable of this leadership role and will do an excellent job, but keep in mind that many are not for a variety of reasons.

Once the leaders or coaches are selected, they will need specific training from an experienced professional on how to execute and lead each warm-up exercise. It is imperative to perform the pre work stretching routine consistently.