This week is Back Care Awareness Week.
As nannies our backs are constantly put under stress and strain, and taking care of ourselves is vital to ensure our career isn’t cut short because we become physically unable to lift, bend and care for children.
If, like many nannies, you spend most of the day on your feet it’s vital to wear sensible, comfortable, well-fitting shoes. We all know high heels are bad for backs, and they’re not too practical for running around after children either, but flat shoes – especially ballerina styles and flip-flops – can be just as bad. The most supportive shoes have a well-cushioned sole and a slight heel. If you can’t bear to give up your flats then investigate inserts that will support your instep. Look after your shoes too, as over time shoes will wear out and stop supporting your foot properly, which can unbalance you and put stress on your back.
Carrying children is obviously a bit part of a nanny’s job, and many nannies will have a child who needs to be carried in their care throughout their entire career, which can be thirty years or more. When lifting a child make sure you employ proper lifting techniques:
Engage your stomach muscles
Bend from your knees
Don’t lift and twist at the same time
If you have a baby or toddler who likes to be carried a lot you should use baby carriers that are ergonomically designed for baby and adult. Avoid types which have very thing straps crossing high in your back and avoid carrying children on your hip for extended periods without some kind of support. You can get advice on different types of carrier here.
Pushing a pram is another daily event for most nannies, but few parents take the physiology of their nanny into account when they choose their pram. If you’re a short nanny working for very tall parents, or the other way round, you might encounter problems with an essential piece of equipment! Where a pram has adjustable handles then make sure you use that feature, but if you find using their pram impossible then do talk to them and try to come up with another solution. It’s also something worth considering at future interviews – if you know you have a problem with a specific model of pram then it should be a consideration on whether you accept the job. A good employer will be willing to work with you on this. After all, no-one wants a nanny going out on long term sick leave over an occupational health problem.
Bags can be another big culprit. An over-filled changing bag, especially if it’s a shoulder bag style rather than a backpack or cross body bag, will cause you to tilt to one side. You might also find yourself carrying several other bags on the school run with older children. Try to minimise the weight of their school bags (this will protect their backs too in the future) and encourage them to carry their own belongings. If necessary get a shopping trolley. They come in pretty funky designs now!
At any sign of discomfort stop what you’re doing and assess whether you can do the task a different way. If you start to notice a pattern raise the issue with your boss and if necessary make a doctor’s appointment. Looking after your back is looking after your career in the long run.
bapn 