Focus Keyword: ALS Caregiver Injury
ALS caregiver injury often stems from a lack of knowledge about the right techniques of giving care to patients living with ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). Even simple day-to-day tasks like shifting a person with ALS from the bed to the wheelchair can result in back pain and injury, if not properly done. But there’s no need to worry, here we provide some essential tips to keep your spine healthy while caring for your loved ones.
Understanding ALS and ALS Caregiver Injury
Before delving into ways of reducing the incidence of caregiver injury, it’s crucial to understand ALS and how it affects the daily life of the diagnosed. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that destroys motor neurons, essential for muscle movement, leading to muscle weakness and disability.
Because people with ALS gradually lose their ability to perform daily activities independently, caregivers are compelled to indulge in heavy lifting and bending, which are the main causes of back pain. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health [NIOSH], in their manual handling guideline, affirmed our position on caregiver injury. Overexertion due to lifting, they noted, contributes to around 40% of all workplace injuries and it is especially prevalent in caregivers.(1)
How to Prevent Back Pain as an ALS Caregiver
One of the top tips in preventing ALS caregiver injury includes using the right body mechanics when lifting or transferring a person.
Adopt the Proper Lifting Technique
The University of Rochester Medical Center gave some recommendations on the proper way to lift. A caregiver should keep their feet shoulder-width apart, bend at the knees (not at the waist!), keep their back straight, and tighten their stomach muscles before lifting. Also, when changing direction, they advise caregivers to step into the turn, rather than twisting at the waist to avoid stress on the lower back.(2)
Find Assistance in Mechanical Aids
To reduce the risk of injury, caregivers should utilize mechanical aids. There are several lifting aids and adaptive equipment available in the market today. From simple tools such as gait belts and transfer boards to complex ones like patient lifts and standing aids, each of these can help prevent back pain associated with manual lifting.
Strengthen Your Back
Engaging in exercises that strengthen the back muscles can go a long way in preventing back pain. Walking, swimming, and simple yoga poses are some of the beneficial exercises suggested by the Mayo Clinic.(3)
Take Regular Breaks
Caregivers are often so engrossed in their tasks they forget to give attention to their own health. It is equally important for caregivers to take regular breaks and care for themselves also.
Seek Professional Training
Receiving training on how to correctly perform caregiving tasks from a professional can also significantly lower the risk of back pain. The American Physical Therapy Association offers resources and training programs that equip caregivers with skills to prevent getting hurt.(4)
If you’re struggling with ALS caregiver injury caused by back pain or have a potential Real Water case, we’re here to help. Visit our contact page to get in touch with us. We’ll work with you and guide you through the process, ensuring you get the standard of care and service you deserve.
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Sources:
(1) NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health), 2021. Safe Patient Handling and Mobility (SPHM). [Online] Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/safepatient/default.html (Accessed 1 September 2021).
(2) University of Rochester Medical Centre, 2021. Protect Your Back: Tips for Caregivers. [Online] Available at: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentID=3059&ContentTypeID=1 (Accessed 1 September 2021).
(3) Mayo Clinic, 2021. Back pain. [Online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/back-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20369906 (Accessed 1 September 2021).
(4) American Physical Therapy Association. Prevention of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries. [Online] Available at: https://www.apta.org/your-career/careers-in-physical-therapy/prevention-of-work-related-musculoskeletal-injuries (Accessed 1 September 2021).