The benefits of the Work Related Neck and Upper Limb Disorders

When Sitting on The Bambach Saddle Seat

  • The hips are at an angle of 45-degree flexion in external rotation and abduction. This allows the pelvis to be positioned in its neutral upright position.
  • By providing a secure neutral pelvic position the natural lumbar-pelvic rhythm will in turn ensure that the spine is positioned in its neutral upright 'S' shaped position.
  • With the pelvis and spine in their natural, neutral position the shoulder girdle is retracted in its natural position and the neck, head and upper limbs can act in a balanced and efficient way. Conventional seating will result in the pelvis rocking backwards into posterior tilt, causing the spine to change from a natural 'S' shape to a 'C' and the shoulder girdle to protract and roll forward and chin jut out.
  • The upper limbs can be maintained in a mid range position which is beneficial in reducing static load and maintaining muscle length and normal tone.
  • The shoulders and arms are relaxed and the hands do not have to act at or near the end range of movement which enables more accuracy and power and minimal fatigue.
  • A clear midline assists maintenance of balance and symmetry. This assists in activating the muscles of postural control in a balanced way which allows the development of a symmetrical posture.
  • Improved posture will lead to improved head control which means that eyesight is maximized and hand-eye co-ordination is facilitated.
  • The Bambach allows close access to work surfaces and work tasks.
  • Swivel action of the Bambach reduces the rotational forces on the cervical spine which can lead to degeneration of the vertebrae, neck pain and headaches.
  • Thoracic, abdominal and pelvic spaces are maximized resulting in improved lung and internal organ function and circulation.
Work Related Disorders

What are Work Related Neck and Upper Limb Disorders?

Work Related Neck and Upper Limb Disorders (WRNULDs), or Repetition strain injury (RSI) as it is also commonly known, is not a diagnosis but an umbrella term for disorders that develop as a result of prolonged repetitive movements, awkward postures, and other work related conditions and ergonomic hazards.

It is most common among assembly line production workers and office workers and is a problem which has become synonymous with computer use and the global trend for increased computer based activities for both leisure and work. This means that aside from the toll in human pain and disability, the condition is also costly in terms of absence from work and compensation.

The exact cause of WRNULDs is not clearly understood however it is likely that physical, individual and psychosocial factors combine to place intolerable stresses on the muscles, tendons and nerve tissue of the arms and neck which in time leads to varying musculoskeletal problems.

Problems associated with Work Related Neck and Upper Limb Disorders

WRNULDs have varied symptoms however the following are common:

  • Recurrent pain or burning sensation in the neck, upper back, shoulders, wrists or hands
  • Weakened grip strength
  • Numbness and tingling and loss of sensation
  • Pain or numbness whilst lying in bed