Early years staff are dealing with ‘chronic’ back, neck and shoulder pain, caused by work-related physical strain, with many accepting it is ‘part of the job’ and managing the pain themselves.
New research by the University of Derby detailing the musculoskeletal pain (MSP) of 196 people working in the early years sector in England and Wales reveals 99 per cent have experienced some form of musculoskeletal pain, with lower back pain being the most common.
Despite the pain being caused by carrying out ‘high risk’ musculoskeletal actions, such as lifting, stooping, and working at low heights and floor level within the workplace, many said they hadn’t reported it to their employer, believing it is part and parcel of the job; they admitted they have continued to work, in some cases taking daily painkillers rather than go on sick leave.
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