Strength & Conditioning for Healthcare Providers

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Hi all!

I am a student and recently our class recieved a visit from Occupational Health during which the speaker stressed the importance of using proper techniques to move/lift/assist patients. Our speaker stated the constant application of good body dynamics was very important in our field since the healthcare industry's workers have the highest rate of back injury nationwide.

He taught us some basic techniques and what-not, but my question is this: Does any one know of a strength routine that is specifically designed for healthcare providers? I lift weights regularly and would love to incorporate lifts/exercises that would target the sets of muscles that I typically employ when moving and lifting patients. Are there any books or websites out there detailing the what kind of physical preventitive maintenance we can do to save our bodies from injury in this profession?

Looking forward to any tips or suggestions! Thanks!

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Specializes in Internal Medicine Unit.

I don't know of a particular exercise program, but would reccomend anything that strenghthens the legs, torso, and arms. Oh, that's the whole body isn't it!:rolleyes: If you go to a gym (especially on campus) there are probably trainers on staff for you to consult. Explain your needs, and they should be able to help with a program. Good luck and continue to take care of yourself!

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Specializes in Specializes in L/D, newborn, GYN, LTC, Dialysis.

Strength training, particularly a combination of aerobic exercise and weight lifting is what I do. It has served me well. You need to be strong to be a nurse and strong muscles will protect your back.

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Specializes in Case mgmt., rehab, (CRRN), LTC & psych.

I have found that squats and lunges are very useful conditioning exercises.

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Specializes in Cath Lab, OR, CPHN/SN, ER.

Think abs, back, and upper legs- The muscles you should be using to help move patients.

Our gym has trainers that will make a program for you. Certain exercises depending on what you want to work on.

My goals were toning and improving my upper arm strength- my legs are pretty strong, and I don't mind working those out. :) So the trainer made me a program with 4 weight exercises for arms and back, and one for abs. I was also supposed to do 30min cardio 3-5x week.

I am so ready to be able to work out again!

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Don't think certain muscles, you got to do total body. I do stretching, yoga, and Tai chi and have no problems.

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yea, its called the dead lift. sorry i couldn't resist. :)

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Total body is very true however speaking as one off with a back injury right now, my PT says ab and thigh muscles should take the brunt. Therefore the more strength you can gain in your abs and thighs the safer your back will be. Flexibility is also very important the more limber you are the less likely you are to strain something. Best of luck and kudo's to you and your school for thinking in advance.

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I just wanted to say thanks to everyone who replied! I have free time tonight so I'm going to spend some it surfing the web for exercises that target what you've all mentioned. I appreciate all of your input and I definitely got a few new, good ideas :)

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