How to Maintain Good Workplace Ergonomics While Working from Home
Due to the global pandemic and shelter-in-place orders, more people are working from home.
Unfortunately, not all homes have good workplace ergonomics.
However, with a few tips from your Allen chiropractor, you can take steps to improve your ergonomics and prevent muscle stiffness, soreness, and pain.
3 Tips for Improved Workplace Ergonomics at Home
Proper workplace ergonomics are vital to helping reduce your risk of:
- Chronic headaches
- Neck pain and stiffness
- Shoulder soreness
- Back pain
- Sciatica
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
Here are some tips that can help you practice better ergonomics wherever you’re working.
1. Do Your Best to Maintain Neutral Posture
Neutral posture means that your body is in proper alignment, resulting in less muscle strain and tension on the joints.
While sitting at your desk, avoid hunching and keep your knees and elbows bent at a 90-degree angle.
Some ways to achieve neutral posture at your desk:
- Invest in a high-quality, adjustable office chair with back support
- Purchase a footrest to keep your feet flat and knees bent at 90-degrees
- Raise your computer monitor screen so you’re looking straight ahead while working on it
2. Avoid Lifting Heavy Objects, Use Aids When Necessary
Lifting heavy items can strain your back and even lead to injuries. If you can’t avoid this, use proper posture (bend with your knees, not your back) and get help from another person or lifting aids.
3. Take Regular Breaks
Taking breaks helps your whole body rest. Looking at a digital screen for too long can result in eye strain and headaches. Sitting at your desk for long periods can lead to soreness and muscle cramps.
Every 20 minutes, follow the 20-20-20 rule – look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to rest your eyes. Try to get up from your desk every hour and stretch for about five minutes. A couple of times each day, take a 10-15-minute break and take a short walk.
Talk to Your Allen Chiropractor for More Tips
Your Allen chiropractors, Dr. Tyler Winfield and Matthew Schindlbeck, can provide you with more workplace ergonomics, posture, and lifestyle tips that will ease the pain. Additionally, they can provide a treatment plan that addresses your needs and gets you out of discomfort fast.
Would you like more posture, health, and lifestyle tips to prevent pain? Contact us today at 469-305-0782 to schedule a wellness consultation.
Posted In:
Chiropractic
Workplace Ergonomics
