Women at Work: Navigating Health and Wellness Challenges
Women are busy breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings, however as they continue to excel in their careers, it is crucial to address women’s unique health challenges and how healthcare services can assist them as they balance their professional and personal lives. Our team at Canning Healthcare have been inspired by Women’s Health Week, so let’s explore the intersection of women’s health and their work environment, focusing on ergonomics, lifting guidelines, and stress management, and unique female-only healthcare issues. Helping women maintain their wellbeing so they maintain their health while pursuing their career goals is important to our team, so we offer a range of treatment to support this goal.
Women’s Unique Health Concerns
Women’s hormonal or reproductive health issues are unique, and when they begin to interfere negatively with daily life, they can be distracting, painful and even debilitating. Employers need to be aware of women’s health issues and support women to ensure they remain effective and valued employees. Some women require medical intervention to relieve the symptoms of issues like PCOS, PMS, endometriosis and menopause and many are choosing to treat symptoms with complementary medicine such as acupuncture.
According to Menopause Australia, the average age of menopause in Australia is 51 years and women aged 45-55 years represent a large proportion of the global workforce. As the number of women going through menopause increases, many of them are likely to experience moderate to severe symptoms at work.
We have an interest in treating women’s health issues at Canning Healthcare, with each treatment designed to relieve tension, manage pain, or resolve your specific women’s health issues. Our chiropractors are able to improve pelvic floor tone, offer period pain support, pregnancy support, and treat incontinence associated with pelvic floor tone. Low back and pelvic pain relief can be addressed by our expert masseuses. Meanwhile, acupuncture can assist in pregnancy support, relief for pain associated with periods or endometriosis, as well as the anxiety and moods associated with PMS. Lastly, our naturopath is able to offer natural hormonal support for PMS, symptoms of menopause, and symptoms of endometriosis.
Ergonomics:
Ergonomics plays a pivotal role in ensuring a comfortable and safe working environment for women. Studies have shown that women are more prone to work-related musculoskeletal disorders than their male counterparts. These disorders can manifest as pain and discomfort in various parts of the body, including the neck, shoulders, back, and wrists.
To address these issues, employers should prioritise ergonomic workspace design. Adjustable chairs, desks, and computer monitors can help women (and men) maintain proper posture and reduce the risk of developing musculoskeletal issues. Regular breaks and stretching exercises during the workday can also alleviate tension and strain, while quality chiropractic care can ensure your body maintains optimal physical function.
Lifting Guidelines
For women, adhering to proper lifting techniques is crucial, especially during pregnancy in order to ensure both the mother and baby’s safety. Expectant mothers often face the challenge of balancing their work responsibilities with the physical demands of pregnancy. Employers should provide clear guidance and support to pregnant employees, allowing them to avoid heavy lifting whenever possible. When lifting is necessary, the weight should be distributed evenly, and proper lifting techniques should be applied to minimise strain on the body and avoid back injuries.
Our chiropractors are experienced working with pregnant women to maintain their physical health, check out how our chiropractors can help during pregnancy.
Stress and Organisation
The workplace can be a breeding ground for stress, affecting women’s mental and physical health. Studies have shown that stress-related illnesses are nearly twice as high for women compared to men. The consequences of workplace stress can be far-reaching, including heart disease, muscle and bone disorders, depression, and burnout.
Women also often carry a disproportionate mental load, juggling work responsibilities with family and household tasks. This constant juggling act can lead to anxiety, mood swings, and burnout. Acupuncture, massage therapy, and complementary therapies can help release muscle tension, promote relaxation, and reduce stress and anxiety levels. Find out more about acupuncture for managing anxiety.
Balancing Work and Family
The struggle is real! Balancing work and family responsibilities is a common challenge for women. In many households, women still shoulder the primary responsibility for caregiving. This added pressure can lead to increased stress levels and negatively impact women’s health.
To address this issue, employers should offer flexible work arrangements and support systems, such as childcare services or parental leave policies. Encouraging open communication and empathy in the workplace can also help create a more inclusive and understanding environment for working mothers.
The Australian Institute of Family Studies reports that in 2021, 60% of couple mothers and 29% of single mothers with a child aged under 1 year were employed. As this number of working mothers continues to rise, it is essential for both employers and society at large to adapt and provide the necessary support systems.
Several of Canning Healthcare’s healthcare services can assist women in managing, including chiropractic care, massage therapy, acupuncture, bowen therapy, and naturopathy. These therapies focus on addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of stress, providing women with the support they need to maintain their wellbeing.
Women in the workforce face dealing with female’s unique health challenges along with those related to ergonomics, lifting, and the demands of balancing work and family. Employers and society must prioritise the wellbeing of working women and through a holistic approach to women’s health, we can empower women to excel in their careers while maintaining their physical and mental wellness. Our health professionals at Canning Healthcare in Perth are here to support women in making informed choices around their healthcare for a healthier, more balanced life for women at home and in the workplace.
Reach out to Canning Healthcare for personalised advice on maintaining your health and wellness today!