Below is a list of our Frequently Asked Questions. If your question is not answered here, please contact us.
What is Ergonomics?
Ergonomics is derived from the Greek words ergon (to work)
and nomoi (natural laws).
The goal of ergonomic products or environments is to interface with humans in the most natural way possible thereby reducing any stresses or strains.
In real terms this ensures that the job is fitted to the person rather than the person to the job.
How can Ergonomics help my organisation?
Benefits of an ergonomics approach include:
Legal compliance e.g. manual handling training.
Improved morale, job satisfaction and productivity.
Improved channels of communication.
Decreased sickness absence and increased cost benefits.
What is an Ergonomic assessment?
An ergonomist will carry out a detailed
assessment of the place where you work, the equipment you
use and the tasks that you do. Any risk factors relating to
these, your working posture and environment will be
identified and recommendations made in order to minimise them.
A detailed report outlining the assessment findings and any recommendations relating to posture, task re-design, equipment and work station lay out will then be produced. This report will contain pictures to help easily identify problems, and will contain anthropometric measurements of the worker in order to facilitate the ordering of any recommend equipment e.g. chair, mouse.
A list of equipment and specialist suppliers is included in the report and we are often able to gain discounts on your behalf and arrange for trial periods on all equipment recommended.
Advice on the design and implementation of policies and procedures in this area is also available.
What are the benefits of using an on-site occupational Physiotherapy service?
On site physiotherapy reduces the time an employee needs away from work to travel to
and from their appointment. It is therefore a more cost effective way of improving
employee health in terms of productivity. It can also encourage absent employees
to come into the workplace for appointments and facilitates return to work due to the absence of
waiting times and ease of access to the service. (HSE 2004)
An added advantage is being able to asses and analyse work tasks in relation to a particular problem and advise accordingly.
What is an occupational health Physiotherapist? Occupational health physiotherapists have ergonomic experience which is used in conjunction with their musculoskeletal knowledge to advise about what adjustments can be made to help employees remain at or return to work.
Do I need a Doctor's referral for
physiotherapy treatment?
No. However, if you are
reclaiming your treatment costs on medical insurance, the
insurance company may require you to have one.
What should I expect at my initial
consultation?
Your initial consultation will last
approximately 45 mins. We will take a detailed history of
your problem ,your general health, medical history,
medications, lifestyle, etc The therapist will then examine
the area and discuss their findings with you before starting
treatment.
What should I wear to my physiotherapy
appointment?
The physiotherapist needs to examine the
whole area around the problem so you may need to undress to
your underwear, but every effort will be made to preserve
your modesty. Shorts may be worn for lower extremity
injuries. If you have a sporting injury, you may wish to
bring your trainers with you as some of your assessment may
include looking at your foot wear and running style.
How quickly will I be seen for my
first appointment?
We will always endeavour to offer
you an appointment on the same day or within 24 hours.
How many treatments will I need?
Following the initial assessment, your physiotherapist will
discuss and agree a treatment plan with you. This may
include an approximation of the number of treatments you may
require. Different conditions respond differently to
treatment with some requiring more or less than others.
Is the cost of physiotherapy treatment
covered by medical insurance?
Yes, if the
physiotherapist is Chartered and Registered with the Health
Professions Council, as all our physiotherapists are, but
please check it is covered on your policy.