Brown Leather Chair

Ergonomics

Ergonomics is a branch of engineering science in which biological science is used to study the relation between workers and their environments. In layman’s terms ergonomics is the study of a work and his work environment. It deals with everything in the work place and tries to improve the work environment so the worker will be happy and not suffer any strains or injuries.

Some people can spend six to eight hours a day in front of a computer due to work. Especially today when so many jobs can be done on a PC. Each person is at risk of suffering injuries related to their job functions. Simply using the mouse every day for that amount of time can cause carpel tunnel. Worst case scenario for not practicing ergonomics is that you could become a victim of musculoskeletal disorders. These disorders can damage your ligaments, joints, tendons, muscles, and almost anything in your body.

Let’s focus on specific parts of the body that are more prone to suffering from not practicing ergonomics.

Hands and Wrists
You are prone to get carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, white finger, or a few other disabilities in your hands and wrists. To protect yourself you can purchase a keyboard and mouse made specifically for ergonomically safety. Place your keyboard and mouse so that you don’t have to reach up to use them. Another simple thing you can do is place something in front of your keyboard that will support your wrists. Having your fingers constantly above your wrists as you type can lead to the disabilities listed above.

Neck
Your neck is susceptible to strains and stiffness. The causes of these maladies are looking at your monitor for extended periods of time and holding the telephone in between your shoulder and heal while you talk on the phone. The telephone remedy is simple. You can use your hand to hold the receiver to your ear or you can purchase a headset. These two solutions are so simple yet so practical that you might overlook executing this solution. Please do it, it will save your neck from many strains. Another simple way to reduce the chance of having neck pains is to sit straight up while at your desk. This will keep your body aligned properly and reduce the risk.

Back
Back pains can put a damper on even the best days. Slouching while you sit will put you at risk of developing back pains. Sitting at your desk without taking breaks will also promote pains to your back. To prevent such pain, do not sit in a hunched position while you work. Find a chair with good lumbar support. This will do wonders for your lower back and give you needed support.

Here are a few Dos and Don’ts to help keep your body healthy while at work.

Do
Position your monitor at eye level in front of you, not to the side.
Stretch often during the day. This can consist of simply standing up and walking around.


Don’t
Sit at a computer desk for an extended amount of time.
Stretch your body with quick and jerky movements.
Have anything in your back pockets while sitting