Bad Work Ergonomics Could be Causing Your Back Problems
Get Work Ergonomics On Track For Less Pain
Does anyone really want to live in pain? Of course not! And what if what you do on a daily basis, without even thinking that the workplace is actually the cause of your pain? More and more people have desk jobs today and work ergonomics play an important role in each person’s life, whether they recognize it or not. There are things you do while you are sitting and working every day that could impact the way you feel for the rest of the day—and beyond. Take note of these habits and ergonomic positions to straighten up your work area and eliminate any pain from your life.
Don’t Be A Slouch
When you relax at your desk, pay attention to the way your back slopes behind you. Are you slouching? It’s a hard habit to break, but once you have, you’ll notice how much less your back, shoulders, and even your neck hurt later. Part of slumping and slouching may be an improper chair. You need a desk chair that will support you in the proper position. Get a chair that can be adjusted for your height and your body. That will help you to sit correctly. Otherwise, remind yourself with post its or even alarms on your phone to check how you are sitting and how your back is hunched.
Computer Monitors Could Be All Wrong
Your computer may be set up a certain way, but that doesn’t mean that it is set up correctly for your health and wellness. You need it to be at eye level so you don’t have to fixate your eyes down and curve your neck or tilt your head back to strain your neck the other way. Likewise, your keyboard needs to be positioned so your arms reach out comfortably, but not too far so you can type without strain. Repetitive motions can really bring pain to your life if you aren’t positioned correctly with the proper work ergonomics.
Never Avoid The Breaks
There is a common misconception that it can be hard to get work done if you take breaks all the time. However, taking breaks from a seated position actually increases productivity, and are the best thing for your body and a pain-free life. The breaks don’t have to be long. You can get up and stretch a bit while you read an email, walk down the hall to grab a glass of water, or run to the bathroom for a moment or two. Don’t avoid those breaks and take them more frequently to keep yourself from being in one position for too long.
Get Into Work Ergonomics Fast
Since you’re one of those people who doesn’t like to live in pain (aren’t we all!) it’s best to understand more about the ergonomics you have—or don’t have—in your workplace so you can fix anything that’s lacking right away and work towards relieving your pain. The professionals at E3 Consulting are happy to help you with work ergonomics through a free online assessment. We can also give you advice in person or help with other wellness coaching elements, depending on what you need.
