Safety share - October 2008

Two men at Mount Thorley Warworth

A sprain is a stretched or torn ligament, which is the tissue that connects bones at a joint. Falling or twisting can cause a sprain. Common areas are the ankle and wrist, and symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising and being unable to move the joint.

A strain is a stretched or torn muscle or tendon, which is tissue that connects muscle to bone. Twisting or pulling these tissues can cause a strain, which can happen suddenly or develop over time. Back and hamstring muscle strains are common, and a lot of people get strains playing sports. Symptoms include pain, muscle spasms, swelling and trouble moving the muscle.

To avoid sprains and strains, try:

Lifting correctly by bending your knees, not your back, and avoid bending or lifting upward unnecessarily
Carrying loads close to your body, keeping as much of the load as possible at waist level
Seeking assistance with heavy loads ie break the load down into smaller parts, use a mechanical device or lift it with another worker
Changing your working positions frequently
Adjusting working heights to prevent slumping or excessive reaching
Stretching during the day to increase your flexibility
Taking body relaxation breaks by letting your shoulders and neck muscles go limp; swivel your head or arms or flex your hands and fingers
Taking care of your whole body with exercise, proper posture, a sensible diet and adequate rest. If your muscles or ligaments have weakened over time from lack of exercise or age, you are more prone to getting a sprain or strain than if you are physically fit.