Why mobility matters for municipal employees

Whether an employee is out in the field or working behind a desk, maintaining mobility is key to their staying safe and injury-free on the job.

Municipal employees often face unique physical demands: lifting, walking, standing for long hours, or even sitting too much. Encouraging them to move the right way helps prevent injuries, reduces falls and strains, and keeps them feeling strong and productive.

Stay safe, stay strong
Overuse injuries and muscle strain can sneak up over time, especially in physically demanding roles like public works, law enforcement, and park maintenance. Simple mobility exercises — such as stretching before a shift and strengthening key muscles — help to reduce the risk of joint pain, back injuries and fatigue, and improve on-the-job performance.

For those who work at a desk, long periods of sitting can lead to stiffness and poor posture. Encouraging regular movement breaks, ergonomic adjustments, and posture-friendly stretches can help employees improve circulation and reduce joint pain and discomfort.

Mobility can also be improved by broader workplace wellness initiatives that help employees stay hydrated and that promote diets rich in anti-inflammatory foods, like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and omega-3-rich fish. Stress management activities such as deep breathing and yoga can also help employees stay mobile and free from pain.

Everyone wins
When employees feel better, they perform better. Employers and employees all win when maintaining mobility is encouraged.

Supporting employee mobility reduces injuries and musculoskeletal issues, improves morale, and increases productivity, no matter the job. Just a few simple habits can make a big difference in helping employees stay safe, strong, and ready for whatever the workday brings.

MIIA continues to support many mobility initiatives for all employees, including onsite mobility training and demonstrations. This onsite training provides the opportunity for targeted and individualized strength and mobility training to support efficient, safe, and pain-free movement on and off the clock. MIIA/Blue Cross Blue Shield subscribers can also take advantage of the Hinge Health app, at no cost, for further muscle and joint support.

Written by Christine Chouinard, MIIA wellness program analyst