5 Tips for Dealing with Aches and Pains as a Nurse

Eight to 16 hours on your feet will cause anyone to be tired and sore at the end of a shift. Add those hours to the strenuous daily activities of nurses, and it’s not surprising that nurses are seeking solutions for aches and pains. Nearly 60% of nurses report job-related pain or injuries. Here are five tips for dealing with aches and pains as a nurse.

According to a report by OSHA, back problems are prevalent in nursing. Registered nurses have a higher risk for strains and sprains than construction workers:

• Back-related workers’ compensation claims showed that nurses have the highest claim rates of any profession or industry
• Registered nurses ranked fifth among occupations most at risk for strains and sprains
• Improper lifting and transferring are two culprits of back problems. Using proper body mechanics is essential to prevent back injury and help reduce the chances of back pain. When lifting, bend at your knees—using your legs—not your back. When bending forward, bend at your hips and not your back as to maintain a neutral spine. Ask for help or use a transfer board when transferring patients.