How Workplace Ergonomics Can Make a Difference for Your Health and Productivity

Have you ever finished a workday feeling sore, stiff or fatigued? It might not just be the workload; it could be your workspace. Whether you're working from a traditional office, at home or a job that involves physical labor, poor ergonomics can lead to several health issues including carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, headaches, muscle pain and more. While some of these issues might seem minor initially, they can accumulate over time and become chronic conditions that affect your quality of life. 

The solution doesn’t always involve a complete overhaul of your workspace. Simple adjustments to how you sit, move and interact with your work environment can positively impact your health and productivity.

What Is Ergonomics and Why Does It Matter?

Ergonomics is the science of designing your work environment to fit your body, rather than forcing your body to fit the environment. This can include everything from how you sit in your chair to the position of your keyboard and monitor, as well as how you perform repetitive tasks. When your workspace is ergonomically designed, it reduces strain on muscles and joints. This helps prevent work-related injuries, boost productivity and makes your job easier on your body.

Adopting an ergonomically friendly workspace isn’t just about preventing pain; it’s also about enhancing performance and longevity. Comfort in the workspace allows for optimal work performance. Here’s how improving ergonomics can benefit you:

• Fewer Injuries
• Less Fatigue
• Increased Focus
• Better Mental Health

How to Set Up an Ergonomic-Friendly Workspace

You don’t need to be an expert to make improvements to your workspace. Small changes today can go a long way in preventing the injuries of tomorrow. Improving ergonomics in the workplace involves several key practices:

• Chair support: Ensure your chair provides proper lumbar support. Position yourself with your feet flat on the floor, knees bent at 90 degrees and hips level with your knees. 
• Monitor placement: Position your computer monitor at or slightly below eye level and arm’s length away to prevent neck strain and eye fatigue.
• Keyboard and mouse positioning: Place the keyboard and mouse within easy reach to avoid overextending and straining the shoulders.
• Lighting: Ensure that your workspace is well-lit to avoid eye strain. Avoid positioning monitors in front of direct light sources, such as windows, to prevent glare.
• Take frequent breaks: Take a walk every 30-60 minutes to give your muscles a break and incorporate back, wrist and leg stretches into your day.

Small Changes, Big Results

Ergonomics is making simple, practical changes to your work environment and modifying unhealthy habits so that you can prevent injuries and promote long-term health. Creating a safe and efficient workflow is an investment to support your physical and mental well-being for years to come.

Don’t wait for discomfort to become a serious problem. Missouri residents can seek physical therapy without a healthcare provider’s referral. If you suffer from hand, wrist, neck or back pain, check out our rehab services or orthopedic services programs.
 

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Trevin Lambert

Trevin is the Content Development Coordinator at North Kansas City Hospital. In his position at NKCH, he creates a variety of written materials utilized throughout the hospital and online for both internal and external audiences. He and his wife, Maddie, recently moved to Kansas City with their dog, Indiana Jones, and their cat, Keanu Reeves.