Healthcare | Monday 22 August, 2016 11:08 am |

The importance for women entrepreneurs to remain in top physical condition if they are to succeed in business is the theme of a new wellness programme launched by Sharjah Business Women Council (SBWC), an affiliate of NAMA Women Advancement Establishment. Titled ‘Health is Key to Success,’ the initiative - which is being conducted in conjunction with the University Hospital Sharjah (UHS) - has been established to discuss wellbeing-related issues in the workplace and to encourage women to be mindful about the effects of their health status on their professional lives.

 

Commencing recently at Sharjah Business Women Council’s Headquarters, “Health is Key to Success” initiative was launched with welcoming remarks from Thuraiya Al Bulushi, Membership & Services Senior Executive at SBWC. The inaugural event programme examined issues relating to the correct posture for sitting and standing as one of the crucial elements in preventing back pain and long term disadvantages—an affliction that affects a significant eight out of 10 people. Led by Dr Manhal Abduljalil Alaraj, MD, from the Department of Orthopaedics, and Faseela Mohammed Ashraf, Acting Physiotherapy Manager, both from UHS, the session discussed ways for women to help prevent these work-based afflictions.

 

“We instituted this programme as we are aware just how important occupational health is for professional women. The health of the economy is dependent on the health of the individuals working within it, so this initiative is an important addition to the array of services we already offer women at Sharjah Business Women Council. We are looking forward to continuing with our ‘Health is Key to Success’ programme, which include workshops around the tagline wellbeing. in conjunction with University Hospital Sharjah and informing our members on ways of   maintaining good health for business success,” said H.E. Ameera BinKaram, Vice-Chairperson NAMA Women Advancement Establishment and Chairperson of SBWC.   

 

During her presentation Faseela Ashraf stated that: “80 per cent of the adult population suffers from back pain at some point, with 30 per cent of back pain directly linked to their work environment. Good posture from standing or sitting is vital in reducing the number of occurrences of back pain – something that, if left uncorrected, can often lead to a lifetime of discomfort. When back pain is experienced, depending on its level of severity and the cause, physical therapy and exercise may be a solution; however, in some cases surgery may be required.”

 

Dr Manhal Abduljalil Alaraj added: "The most common cause of back pain in adults is muscle tension, from standing or sitting for long periods of time in a bad position. Being overweight is also another significant cause of stress on the muscles, joints and nervous system. For women, there is the additional risk factor relating to the wearing of high heels – a common form of footwear for businesswomen in the UAE. It is important that women realise that by minimising the wearing of this style of shoe, and by considering more ergonomic designs that support the foot properly, they can reduce the risks of developing long-term back pain issues.”

 

Following the presentations from the two medical professionals, a Q&A session took place, giving attendees the opportunity to receive answers to their specific concerns on occupational health issues. One-on-one consultations were also provided for attendees, with preventative and remedial solutions for back pain able to be discussed at a more personal level.

 

“Health awareness for women is essential if they are to play an integral role in the building of the economy. Reaching a state of wellbeing and maintaining that state is vital for women in order to attain both operational excellence and job satisfaction. We are very grateful to both Dr. Alarj and Ms. Ashraf for their time spent in educating Sharjah Business Council Ladies on the importance of looking after their backs,” added H.E. Ameera BinKaram Vice-Chairperson NAMA Women Advancement Establishment and Chairperson of SBWC.