Hyderabad, September 8: Aster DM Quality Care Limited marked World Physiotherapy Day with an organisation-wide awareness programme on workplace ergonomics, focusing on posture, movement and preventive practices to reduce health problems associated with prolonged sitting and repetitive work.
Employees from CARE Hospitals and Aster Hospitals participated virtually in the session, which was hosted from the company’s Hyderabad office.
The programme focused on the growing importance of workplace ergonomics as employees spend longer hours at desks and in front of digital screens. Poor posture, prolonged sitting and repetitive movements can contribute to discomfort and strain involving the neck, shoulders, back and wrists.
Dr. Vibha Siddannavar, Senior Physiotherapist at CARE Hospitals, Hitech City, led the session and demonstrated practical measures employees can adopt during their working day. These included maintaining correct sitting posture, positioning computer screens appropriately, taking regular movement and stretching breaks, and identifying early signs of physical strain.
“Many of the aches and pains we experience at work develop gradually because of poor posture, prolonged sitting and repetitive movements. Small changes in the way we sit, move and organise our workstations can make a meaningful difference,” Dr. Siddannavar said.
She also advised employees to pay attention to early discomfort rather than allowing it to develop into a persistent musculoskeletal problem.
Highlighting the link between employee wellbeing and organisational performance, Dr. Amit Singh, Group Chief Human Resources Officer (India II), Aster DM Quality Care Limited, said employee health should become an integral part of workplace culture.
“Our people are at the heart of healthcare delivery, and their wellbeing is fundamental to building a strong organisation. As work patterns evolve, we need to pay greater attention to everyday habits that affect physical health,” he said.
Dr. Singh said bringing CARE and Aster employees together for the initiative was part of the organisation’s effort to strengthen preventive health and wellbeing practices across its workforce.
The session also included practical demonstrations on workstation ergonomics and everyday movement, with employees encouraged to avoid remaining in the same position for extended periods and incorporate short activity breaks into their workday.
World Physiotherapy Day is observed annually on September 8 to highlight the role of physiotherapists in improving mobility, physical function, prevention and quality of life.