Exercises in the OR??

brewerpaul · Jul 21, 2008

Why are you standing still for hours? Are you scrubbing in or circulating?

As a circulator, I NEVER seem to stand still. I'm always running here and there to bring stuff to the field or get supplies from wherever. I get a minute or two here and there to sit down and make additions to my computer record, but then I'm right back up, straightening up the room, keeping my sponges in order, etc. I also wander around, watching the case whenever I can from different vantage points.

ShariDCST · Jul 21, 2008

hi all-
i'm about a month into my or orientation and am just starting to get used to being on my feet, standing still, for hours. my question is can any of you recommend exercises or stretches you can do in the or to keep the back pain away? i have a good pair of supportive shoes and socks but am not used to standing still for so long. any help would be greatly appreciated :bowingpur!!
thanks all!

as the previous responder mentioned, not sure why you're standing still for so long unless you are scrubbed in. my circulators generally earned that title from constant circulating around the room taking care of numerous chores!

be that as it may, you wanted exercises for back issues. one of the best is to put one foot up on something low, like a spare standing stool, the base of a rolling chair (up against something so it doesn't roll away!! :nono: ) or if you are scrubbed in and can reach it, the base of the bed. switch off every so often. this takes some of the strain off your back. another one is to back up to a wall, and flatten your spine against it while bending your knees slightly. it's almost like trying to sit down and not having a chair there to sit on. you get into almost the same position, but make sure all of your spine is pressed up against the wall, and hold it for a few seconds. another one is to back up to the wall and just roll your spine against it, from neck to waist, and back up again. it helps get the kinks out. shoulder rolls or shrugs help, and so do bringing your knees up to about waist height and back down again - almost like an exaggerated marching step with knees high, but doing it in place. if you have room, and you're not scrubbed in, do the "rag doll" and slowly lower yourself toward the floor while bending at the waist with your arms dangling down. no bouncing. just a slow lowering, and then use your abs to stand up straight again. keep thos abs tight and tucked in - they support your back.

of course - once you get more involved in circulating cases, you may not have time - or need - to do any of these, but in the meantime, give them a shot. hope they help! :twocents:

oldcop · Jul 21, 2008

I am scrubbing so some of those ideas are great but others won't be allowed. Thanks ShariDCST for the suggestions....!

Owensaunt · Jul 23, 2008

walk around the room if you're the circulator rock on your feet if your scrubbed. We've also been known to bust an "old school"groove to break the tension. One place we had a ritual of a "Friday" dance every friday at am report.

brewerpaul · Jul 23, 2008

If you're standing scrubbed, you could try going up on the balls of your feet, back down and then rocking back on your heels. The calf contractions will keep blood circulating.