Focus on Health

Work can be a pain. Literally.

It’s estimated that 38 million Americans each year suffer from migraines, while an additional 40 million employees currently struggle with crippling arthritis. And a recent study found that almost 10 percent of all workers’ compensation claims are related to back pain. Unfortunately, the way the workplace is configured can often exacerbate these issues and cause employees to have to manage their pain at work.

Many employers are unaware of their employees’ struggles until they look at the bottom line. The World Health Organization estimates that presenteeism — when employees are physically at work but because of a physical or emotional issue are distracted to the point of reduced productivity — costs U.S. employers an estimated $150 billion a year.

Despite the financial impact from pain, most employers are focused on addressing more visible diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and heart disease. While the intention is pure, employers continue to search for more effective — and inexpensive — ways to help employees put in a pain-free day of work. 

Your Aching Backs

Welcome to Wellness 2.0

Small Bites: The Appeal of Dental and Vision Benefits

Guidance on Ailments 

Throughout this feature, we’ve included expert advice from a group of physicians who treat the physical issues that working in offices can cause and exacerbate. 

Arthritis 

Eyestrain/Computer Vision Syndrome  

Insomnia

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Migraines

Seizures