Veterinary professionals often face significant physical demands in their work, leading to common strains and injuries. Activities such as kneeling for floor exams, maintaining awkward positions during dental procedures, restraining uncooperative pets, and carrying sedated animals on stretchers contribute to physical stress. Aaron Shaw, OTR/L, CHT, CSCS, an occupational therapist and founder of Project Vetspan, emphasizes the importance of building physical strength outside of work as a key strategy to reduce these risks.
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In a recent discussion on The Resilient Vet podcast, Shaw and cohost Jennifer Edwards, DVM, PCC, CPC, ELI-MP, explored how clinical postures can stress nerves and tendons, and why pain has become a normalized aspect of veterinary culture. Shaw shared a troubling observation from a conference where he asked 500 veterinary professionals if they regularly worked in pain, and every attendee raised their hand. This consensus highlights a concerning acceptance of pain as part of the job, though Shaw insists that such discomfort is not normal or inevitable.
Shaw's insights reveal critical challenges facing the veterinary field, including static and awkward postures required during routine tasks, often compounded by the unpredictable nature of working with live animals. He explains that many positions taken during veterinary procedures can be detrimental to physical health, making it essential to address this issue. He notes the importance of not only improving ergonomics but also enhancing personal physical strength to manage the rigorous demands of veterinary work.
The conversation documented the difference between ergonomics—matching job demands to an individual's physical capabilities—and body mechanics, which involves how one moves to achieve tasks. While both concepts aim to reduce injury risk, Shaw argues that they alone cannot mitigate the physical challenges inherent in veterinary practice.
Edwards remarked on the unpredictability and physical rigor of the job, likening it to a game of Twister with animals that may not cooperate. Shaw warned against the cultivation of a culture that views enduring pain as a badge of honor, noting it can lead to higher rates of burnout and people leaving the profession entirely.
To address these issues, Shaw advocates for a consistent strength training program as the most effective solution for managing the physical toll of veterinary work. He believes that building strength outside of work equips professionals to better handle the physical demands experienced on the job. He also encourages additional activities such as yoga and mobility training but maintains that nothing substitutes for increased physical strength in ensuring safety during patient handling.
Shaw offers resources such as a free three-week training program for veterinary professionals on his website, projectvetspan.com, to help them begin their journey toward increased resilience and reduced pain. He emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps to prevent injury and promote a healthier work environment.