illness , increased absences , and even a loss of humor . Some of the top factors that contribute to work-related stress are long work hours , lack of job security , lack of training and resources , and poor work relationships . Add the physical demands of many sparelated jobs and you get an environment where stress levels can easily escalate .
“ One of the major contributors to employee work-related stress is the physically demanding nature of certain treatments , such as massage and body work ,” says Thompson . “ Also , many therapists by nature are sensitive to the energies of people and will pick up on the stress and tension of their guests , which takes an additional toll on the therapist .”
Employees can also feel stressed when they feel like they aren ’ t able to get their work accomplished , whether from lack of help , training , or support from management . “ We are a society of functioning within our business with a ‘ lean and mean ’ mentality . That is , we have to do more with less in order to remain competitive . As business owners , we need a good handle on what the responsibilities are of each position and
Adjustable tables , like the Atlas Flex-Block™ Salt Table from TouchAmerica , allow therapists to work more comfortably and avoid injury .
how best to prioritize what functions will make the biggest impact to the business ,” Kolb says .
REDUCING THE STRESSORS As a manager , you can ’ t control what is going on at home or in your employees ’ personal lives , but you can help make their work life less stressful .
“ As a leader , it is my job to both listen directly to my employees , as well as to stay abreast of potential problems before they present themselves ,” says Griffith . “ Giving people the training and support they need , plus providing the materials , equipment and technology required for them to do their job efficiently [ are ways to reduce stress factors ].” Griffith also pointed out that it ’ s important to give people a chance to express their grievance in a safe setting with the intention of finding a resolution . “ Once the particular workplace stressor is identified , we work together toward a solution , whether it is additional resources or training or a change in the job description ,” he says .
To help identify common work stressors , Evans suggests keeping a journal for a week and creating a plan once factors are identified . “ This may include blocking time on one ’ s calendar to either recharge or focus on the work one needs to complete , rather than allowing others to create additional meetings for you to attend . Have an open dialogue with your supervisor , peers and / or direct reports establishing boundaries that would allow you to complete your tasks in a timely fashion or seek help from those who support you ,” she says .
Sometimes , all your employees need to de-stress is a little break . A 2011 study by the University of Illinois at Urbana-
Common Spa Injuries and How to Prevent Them
INJURY TIP
Tenosynovitis : A condition caused by overuse — in this case , excessive use of the tendons of the thumb .
“ Massage therapists should adequately condition their bodies for the physical demands of massage therapy . Stretching of the affected tendons after each massage session on a regular basis will be helpful . Additionally , practitioners can self-massage the affected tendons to help reduce any adhesions that might develop between the tendon and its sheath , effectively decreasing the incidence of this condition ,” says Evans .
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome : A condition where the median nerve becomes compressed , causing sensory and / or motor dysfunction .
“ One alternative is to slightly supinate the forearm so that the therapist massages the client more on the ulnar side of the hand instead of the center of the anterior wrist or palm . Forearms are another good alternative contact . Stretching , selfmassage and conditioning is important too . Finding all means possible to help decrease compressive loads on the median nerve is crucial . Massage therapists should get regular bodywork to their upper extremities , including the anterior forearm and hand ,” says Evans .
38 PULSE ■ January / February 2017