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SPD/PGP - getting the work/pain balance right

1 reply

Cazzr · 08/02/2011 16:19

mistakenly posted this in pregnancy forum

Ok, so have developed pgp again this time round and i'm trying my best to manage the situation.
The thing is, most of my problems stem from being at work. lol
I work full time in a desk job and whilst I can take breaks etc the difference in my pain levels and mobility when not at work for a few days is vastly different to how I am during/after work.

Work are being good in letting me work out how best to manage things and I currently work in the office from 9-1 and then travel home to work the rest of the day at home.
I've taken in a pillow to sit on as part of the pain seemed to stem from my chair being a bit on the hard side (had it for years before without problem).
Things have definitely improved but I'm struggling to see what else I can do to help. I'm 26 weeks now and know it's likely to get worse so I feel like I am doing what I can till I either get signed off or start my leave (leave accrued rather than mat leave).
I'm seeing a physio and have asked my boss to refer me to occ health for advice/guidance but I'm wondering... what should my expectations be.
Is it unreasonable to expect to be as pain free/mobile as I would be if I weren't working, or just be able to get comfortable enough to see my time through?

If i'm honest, I don't think work give 2 flying f*s if i'm there or not now as there is little I can start before I go and I am currently documenting my work to the nth degree as no one is lined up to be providing cover whilst I am away as yet.

Midwife seemed to think the doc would sign me off if I were to see them but if anyone saw me out and about normally I wouldn't look like I need to be signed off, whereas at work/after work, i'm shuffling around like a little old lady.
Mentally, I feel stubbornly against getting signed off, probably cos i'll feel like a fake/sciver.

OP posts:
flowery · 08/02/2011 19:15

It doesn't really matter what anyone else would think if they saw you out and about. It's all about context and if your GP/physio/OH practioner's opinion is that despite the measures you've already taken, you are in fact not fit for any work, then you should and will be signed off.

If you think work are not bothered either way, and medical advice is to be signed off, you really shouldn't worry about feeling like a fake. It's a balance between being a committed employee and putting your health first and your doctors will advise you when the balance has been tipped.

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