If you work in a warehouse, you move your arms constantly while lifting boxes and steering equipment. All of this movement puts you at risk for repetitive strain injuries. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to heal completely after such an injury. Most people are never able to return to their full capacity without experiencing further symptoms after such an injury. The best way to avoid the pain caused by repetitive stress injuries is to avoid the injury in the first place. While it can be difficult to do in a warehouse setting, it is possible. Following are three ways to avoid repetitive strain symptoms caused from warehouse work. 

Use Equipment Properly

When you operate equipment, such as a palette jack, forklift or loader, be sure to use it properly. For example, walking in front of a hand jack while pulling it behind you with one arm can place an unnecessary burden on the tendons in your shoulder and arm, which may cause an injury. Always operate equipment the way you were trained to do so. Furthermore, pay close attention to your posture and how you're moving your body while you're working. If something feels unnatural or wrong, you're probably putting strain on your body. However, some warehouse equipment can be helpful for putting less strain on the body, so consider looking into various warehouse material handling supplies to assist in the work.

Take Frequent Breaks

One of the best ways to avoid repetitive stress injuries is to take frequent breaks from the task that you're doing. If you can't take a break from work altogether, try to vary your tasks or space them out so you're not repeating the same movements constantly. If you have no choice but to perform the same motions over and over again, try to use your other arm for while to give your dominant arm and hand a break. 

Take up Strength Training

Physical therapy and strength training can help you avoid repetitive stress injuries because they strengthen your muscles, which allows you to do more with them. The key to strength training is to strengthen your muscles so they can easily perform tasks that are above and beyond what you require them to do each day. However, you should never start an exercise program while you're in pain. If you have symptoms, allow some time for healing first. 

Warehouse work can be hard on the body. However, you can remain healthy and free from pain if you use your equipment properly, take frequent breaks, and strengthen your muscles. If you're not sure how to operate your equipment or what posture you should be using while operating it, be sure to talk to your supervisor and ask for additional training.