According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, musculoskeletal disorders made up 33 percent of all work-related injury and illness cases in 2011. When considering the impact of proper ergonomics on workplace safety, ACA stresses three basic principles: 1. When lifting, the largest muscles in the area should perform the task. The larger the muscle or muscle group used for lifting, the lower the stress on smaller, more vulnerable muscles. 2. During any work activities, people should be able to comfortably assume a number of different postures and not remain in one position for an extended time. Muscles will fatigue and be more prone to injury when assuming a particular posture, especially a poor one (e.g., partially bent forward at the waist). 3. When performing tasks, it is important to keep the joints either in their neutral posture or approximately halfway into the range of motion. Working with your joints at the extremes of their ranges of motion for prolonged periods places abnormal stresses on them and can cause repetitive stress injuries. Our bodies are not designed to maintain the same posture for long periods of time or to repeat the same motions endlessly, said ACA President Keith Overland, DC. Stretches and exercises can help prevent pain and injury. There are also natural, cost-effective approaches to treating pain, such as chiropractic services, that can help patients avoid unnecessary drugs or surgery. For more information about creating a healthier working environment, please visit ACAs website for health and wellness tips.