What does it mean to have good ergonomics?
The term ‘ergonomics’ describes the efficiency of people’s working environments. Your workplace set up significantly influences how efficient your body can complete the work in front of you. Having good workplace ergonomics can help eliminate discomfort and reduce your risk of injury at work.
With so many people working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic, having an ergonomically sound desk set up is crucial to keep up with your job while working from home. So, how does one make their workplace the most ergonomic? Below are the top 5 tips to follow when setting up your work station.
Top 5 Tips
- Adjust your chair so your elbows are at desk level and your wrists are straight as you type on the keyboard.
- Set your monitor so it is at eye level and sit about 20-30 inches away from the monitor. If you use a laptop, prop it up on some books to add height, and set up a wireless keyboard to keep at desk level.
- Keep the mouse next to the keyboard so you can maintain your elbows close to the body as you work.
- If your feet don’t comfortably reach the ground, add a box, or foot rest to reduce strain on the low back.
- Adjust your seat back for good support, and use the tilt feature to find a comfortable position. Use a lumbar support pillow as needed.
Having improper office ergonomics can lead to poor posture and pain. If you are experiencing neck, low back, shoulder or jaw pain, it may be due to poor posture and prolonged sitting at an improper desk set up. Schedule an appointment today to address your pain and possible ways to adjust your work station to help prevent future pain and injury!