Well we are well and truly into the working year so itʼs the right time to get your workstation looked at. We have already seen the effects of poor workstation ergonomics on our patients health and wellbeing.
This article will outline some tips that may help to take the stress out of your neck and back while you are working. It is important to understand that when it comes to workplace ergonomics you are fitting the workplace to the worker, not the worker to the workplace.
We need to address:
Firstly lets look at chairs. When selecting chairs check out this criteria.
✔ Seat height is adjustable
✔ Back adjustable up and down
✔ Back tilt forward and back
✔ Seat pan adjustable in and out
✔ Arms adjustable up and down (it is preferred to get chairs without arms)
✔ Proper fit for individual
✔ 5 casters for stability
For many patients if they do not have someone at work that assists them in workstation ergonomics then we suggest that you ask someone to take some photos of you sitting at your desk and them to your practitioner.
Some tips to help you through the day:
Try some of these tips if you are struggling with neck/back pain, headaches, RSI and even jaw pain due to a poorly set up workstation. Please speak to your practitioner if you have any concerns about any issues.
Thank you to Corporate Work Health Australia for their wonderful illustrations.