CART
We’ve all experienced neck or back pain after a long day of work. Sore wrists and hands are common symptoms of long hours spent typing. Prevention of common workplace ailments is the goal of the science of ergonomics.
According to the US Department of Labor, ergonomics is defined as the science of fitting workplace conditions and job demands to the capabilities of the working population. Specific to office environments, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself from pain related to your job. Most important is posture which means the right chair is key. Your office chair should allow you to sit comfortably in several healthy positions. Not sure if your chair or sitting position are ergonomic? The below list covers the main factors to a comfortable and healthy position:
- Make sure your chair has lumbar support to relieve disc pressure in your lower back
- Your seat and seat back should be at a 90 degree angle.
- Your knees should be bent at a 90 degree angle
- Adjust the height of your chair so that your feet rest flat on the floor
- If typing, keep your elbows bent at 90 degrees and your wrists straight
