Mills Massage Health Goncerns

Pinched by escalating workers' comp costs, Pacific Northwest mills are taking matters into their own handsintroducing preventive massage therapy programs for employees.

Workers who operate headrigs, gangsaws, ripsaws, resaws and other machinery often perform constant repetitive motions, making them prime candidates for strains, sprains and other maladies.

"Basically when a person is doing repetitive work, like a grader flipping boards, it builds up scar tissue in the muscles that exerts pressure and causes pain," explained Dr. Greg Weidlich, a chiropractor used by several lumber companies throughout the West. "Through specific techniques to remove the scar tissue. ergonomics, exercise and general advice, we can reduce injuries, absenteeism and workers' comp claims. It's also good for morale, showing the company cares."

Three years ago, Weidlich treated for carpal tunnel syndrome two employees at the fingerjoint plant in Deer Lodge, Mt., formerly owned by Louisiana-Pacific. The therapy was so successful, the plant manager asked to initiate a pilot prevention program for a dozen workers.

From there, he introduced his therapy at other facilities, including Stimson Lumber, Collins Cos., and Forest Grove Lumber Co. He now services 14 timber manufacturing sites across the Northwest.

He or a local physician he has trained visits each location weekly, providing a form of soft tissue massage for l0

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minutes or more per employee. Workers are temporarily pulled off the production line and straddle a chair in a break room or conference room, so the doctor can treat their backs. He then advises on stretching techniques and other exercises that can help mitigate any problems and in time maintain their health without the weekly visits.

Weidlich emphasizes that the therapy is for prevention and early intervention, not for treatment of long-standing problems. Patients requiring more serious attention are referred to a medical professional.

According to v.p.-human resources Nancy Helseth, Collins Cos. currently has about 30 employees participating in the program in Chester, Ca.; about 40 in Klamath Falls, Or.; eight in Portland, Or., and has just introduced it to its Lakeview sawmill.

Reportedly, the program has saved Collins thousands of dollars in time lost and potential workers' comp claims. Weidlich estimates Collins saved $24,000 in 15 months at Chester, Ca., and $156,000 in six months in Klamath Falls.