Workspace Week gave Darwin’s support workers – those in aged care and disability roles – a chance to reflect on the physical effort required to help others. From lifting and assisting clients to driving between homes, the week’s events reminded carers that self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s part of doing their job well.
Small Strains That Add Up Over Time
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are the leading Work Health and Safety issue in Australia. Across homes and facilities, daily movements – leaning, twisting, carrying, and standing – can build tension in the lower back, hips, neck, and shoulders. These are not always single incidents; they are patterns repeated throughout our team rosters. Identifying those patterns and then adjusting technique turned out to be one of the most useful insights from the week.
Movement Habits That Help on the Job
Carers reported that simple changes, such as setting feet before lifting, keeping items close to the body, turning with the whole body rather than twisting, and pausing for brief mobility breaks, made shifts feel lighter. Chiropractic care focuses on improving joint motion and body awareness, aiming to support steadier posture and more comfortable movement during long days.
Workshops Tailored to Real-World Tasks
The conversations around WMSDs did not end when the week wrapped up. NT Chiropractic Health & Wellness Centre offers on-site workplace workshops across Darwin that are built around what care teams actually do, including transfers, bed care, vehicle time, and housekeeping tasks. Sessions cover posture checkpoints, team load sharing, and quick stretch sequences that fit between visits. The aim is simple: reduced strain risk, clearer movement plans, and practical habits that staff can apply the same day.
Tips Your Team Can Start Using Straight Away
- Set your base; feet hip-width apart before lifting
- Keep elbows tucked, bring items close to your centre
- Swap carrying sides between homes, share loads when possible
- Schedule 60-second stretch breaks, neck, hips, calves
Book a Workplace Workshop for Your Team
Keep the gains from Workspace Week going. Contact NT Chiropractic Health & Wellness Centre to book an on-site chiropractic workplace workshop tailored to your crew. These educational sessions are designed to share movement and posture tips your team can apply straight away to prevent WMSDs..