The musculoskeletal system is an essential component of human health. The musculoskeletal system includes bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and soft tissues, which all work together to support your body’s weight and help you stand, sit, and move. In addition to providing the body with structure and the means for movement, the musculoskeletal system acts as endocrine system, stimulated by exercise, interacting through biochemical signaling with other organs in the body.
Musculoskeletal disorders are the leading cause of disability in the U.S., with enormous impact on quality of life and longevity. A wide range of conditions can lead to problems in the musculoskeletal system, including common ailments such as back pain, arthritis, and broken bones. Aging, injuries, birth defects, and disease can cause pain and limit movement. The best way to take care of your musculoskeletal system is to maintain good health overall. Eat a balanced diet, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, avoid tobacco, and see your provider for regular checkups.
This month, Employee Wellness offers opportunities to learn more about musculoskeletal health as well as opportunities to practice self-care and get moving. Browse July offerings on this page.
July Presentations |
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Learn strategies for creating and maintaining healthy habits straight from the experts. Browse our July webinars below. These sessions are open to all full and part time employees. For those participating in the wellness rewards program, each session is worth 10 Tier 2 points. |
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July 12 12-1 pm Webinar |
Understanding Balance and Proper Posture Techniques Poor posture can lead to neck and spine pain/injury. Join Keith Zimcosky, MSEd, MBA, ACSM-CPT, for a discussion on proper sitting, standing, and walking techniques to maintain healthy balance and posture, which may help reduce the risk of neck and back pain Register to attend "Understanding Balance and Proper Posture Techniques" |
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July 21 12-1 pm Webinar |
Yoga is for EveryBODY Many people are afraid to try yoga because they don't think they can do it 'right'. Join yoga and Reiki guru, Judith Eugene, to learn about the myriad of ways that yoga can be easily and seamlessly adapted for varying levels of ability and experience while still providing exceptional benefit. Judith will discuss how yoga helps increase strength, flexibility, balance, endurance, and relaxation. Participants will also learn the yoga principles of acceptance, non-judgement, and mindfulness; which help people at all levels of ability to achieve peace and healthy patterns of thinking. |
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July 27 12-1 pm Webinar |
Your Musculoskeletal Health Join Kent State's Angela Ridgel, PhD, ACSM-EP, FACSM, Professor, Exercise Science and Exercise Physiology, and Associate Director, Brain Health Research Institute, as she discusses changes in muscle and bone with age and inactivity. Participants will learn about developing a personal exercise program that includes strength training and aerobic activity to improve musculoskeletal health. |
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Mindful Monday with Daron |
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Musculoskeletal pain is pain that affects bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and/or tendons. While mindfulness should not be used in place of treatments recommended by your doctor, there is evidence that mindfulness-based interventions such as meditation, yoga, and stress reduction may lower a person’s perception of pain, increase mobility and functioning, and improve overall well-being 1. This is just one of the many potential benefits of adopting a mindfulness practice. To discover what mindfulness is all about, join Daron Larson for Mindful Monday on July 11. Register for the July 11 session Learn more about Mindful Mondays |
Wellness Your Way Category
Did you know that there is a Tier 2 category called “Wellness Your Way” that encourages participants to describe a wellness activity of their choosing that is not captured by another category and earn points? Examples include training for a 5K, daily meditation, team sports/intramurals, and weekly lunchtime walks.
Uphill, downhill, through sand, snow, gravel or grass. Adding a variety of different terrain types to your walks can not only add variety to your routine but also allows you to work different muscles and challenge your balance and cardiovascular fitness. Join Beth Michel, Assistant Director, Recreation & Wellness Services, on July 7 to learn about how to safely and effectively take on different types of terrain found on the Kent campus.
Check out an eBike or eScooter through the SPIN program or bring your bike from home for a group ride on July 28. A representative from SPIN will lead the group on a 40-minute ride around the Kent campus and surrounding community.
