In early years, the situation is even more acute, with many practitioners finding that environments designed to be optimal for children’s development are less than optimal for their own health. Soon-to-be-published research undertaken by the University of Derby in collaboration with the Early Years Alliance, the National Education Union, and Jolly Back, a company focused on supporting the health of adults working with children, found that an astonishing 98% of the 196 participants reported pain associated with carrying out work-related actions. The lower back was the most reported painful area (89%). The research, which is currently in pre-print, found that the average duration of pain was one to two weeks.
Stooping over, working at low height or floor level, and lifting children and equipment, have all been shown to have a negative impact on musculoskeletal health. Musculoskeletal disorders include back, neck, hip and knee pain, joint injuries and muscle strains. The research found that the longer someone worked in early childhood education, no matter how old they were, the more likely they were to experience pain in more parts of the body.
Level of Education: Preschool
Lead Organisation: Nursery Management Today NMT
