As you’re making your new year’s resolutions, don’t forget about ergonomics. Repetitive motion, awkward posture and physical strain in your office environment can lead to musculoskeletal disorders like carpal tunnel, tendinitis and muscle strains. Even if you don’t develop a work-related injury, incorporating ergonomic solutions into your work environment can lead to increased productivity and health. We’ve put together a list of ergonomic New Year resolutions that we hope you consider this year.
Chair & Chair Accessories
If you use a traditional desk, you spend a lot of time in your chair. Don’t let a poor fit cause aches and pains. Trying out a new chair or even just a chair accessory could drastically change your comfort and productivity at work. Try the Better Back Lumbar Cushion to give your back the support it needs. Then set up the chair itself: a seat that supports the curve of your spine, knees in line with your hips, feet flat on the floor, and a desk height that keeps your wrists in line with your elbows.
Move More
Fitness resolutions are common in the new year. However, you don’t have to commit to an overwhelming daily gym routine. Start out by incorporating small amounts of movement into your work day. Instead of sitting in a conference room, take walking meetings. If that isn’t realistic, start a walking group. That way you and your coworkers can keep each other accountable for completing a step goal. Vary your movement, take the stairs instead of the elevator, and when grogginess hits, get up and move. Our guide to posture and movement at work explains why changing position matters as much as good posture, and our small daily habits for the new year make it easier to stick with.
Engage Your Muscles
Sometimes being sedentary is a part of your job. A traditional chair allows your body to disengage. When your body is completely relaxed, your circulation becomes poor and muscle fatigue is common. Encourage your body to stay engaged even when you’re not moving by using alternative seating. An active seat such as the HAG Capisco saddle chair keeps your core working while in a seated position.
Treat Your Feet
While using a standing desk is a great way to avoid sitting all day, it can cause harm to your feet. Antifatigue mats provide cushion that relieves stress from your feet, joints and muscles. The SmartCells Anti Fatigue Mat from Satech offers secure, stable footing and an optimal level of softness. Consider combining the anti-fatigue mat with supportive footwear. When you stand, keep your head in line with your shoulders, hips and feet, and stay about an arm’s length from your monitor.
Rethink Your Devices and Desk
Holding a phone to your ear stresses the neck and shoulders, so use a hands-free headset for calls. If possible, don’t use a laptop as your primary work computer: a separate keyboard and monitor give you far more flexibility to sit well. Finally, clear the clutter. Keep the supplies you use often within easy reach and store the rest in drawers or on the wall.
Ergonomics Evaluation
Start your year with a workstation that fits your personal needs. Don’t be held back by aches and pains. When you schedule a workstation evaluation, we’ll find the source of your body aches and recommend solutions. We will also discuss lighting issues, proper posture and optimum mousing techniques. Feeling comfortable at work can lead to increased productivity and help prevent injuries like carpal tunnel.
Ergo Works in Palo Alto, CA can help you provide a safe and healthy work environment for your office. We were developed in response to the need for ergonomic workplace safety especially for heavy computer users. We offer workstation evaluations, workshop training, office space planning and on-site installations.
Photo by: © Panuwat Dangsungnoen | Dreamstime.com
