HEALTH INSIGHTS

Ergonomics: Does Your Workstation Fit You?

January 23, 2020

Ergonomics: Does Your Workstation Fit You?

You may not know it, but working at your computer can take a toll on your body. It can cause sore muscles, headaches, eyestrain, tension, and fatigue. But ergonomics can help. It's the science of arranging your workstation to fit you and your body. Read on to find out how ergonomics can help solve problems you may be having.

Woman sitting at workstation. Head and neck upright. Monitor at correct height and distance. Forearms parallel to floor. Keyboard at comfortable height. Lower back supported. Chair at correct height. Feet flat on floor or footrest.

If your eyes are really tired at the end of the day, adjusting your monitor or lighting may bring relief.

If your neck and shoulders are often stiff and sore, your chair height, monitor, or keyboard may need adjusting.

If you ever feel pain or discomfort in your back while working at your computer, adjusting your backrest or sitting posture may take strain off your back.

If you feel tingling, numbness, or pain in your forearms, wrists, or hands, your chair height or keyboard may need adjusting.

If your body feels tired, achy, or stiff at the end of the day, you may need to take stretch breaks more often.

If your legs are often stiff and cramped, or you have swelling and numbness in your ankles and feet, your chair might not be at the best height for you. Or you may need a footrest.

Updated:  

January 23, 2020

Reviewed By:  

Finke, Amy, RN, BSN,Horowitz, Diane, MD