ON ERGONOMICS || 3 Ways to Create Comfort and Productivity in Your Office Space

Ergonomics is the science of designing workplaces that fit the human body.

For those of you who work from home, your home workspace may be a work in progress, but investing the time to get it set up properly will be worth it and relieve you from aches and pains caused by long periods of sitting each day. When your workspace is ergonomic, you're more likely to be comfortable and productive.

Here are 3 ways to create comfort and productivity in your office space:

1. Adjust your chair. Your chair should be adjusted so that your feet are flat on the floor, your knees are bent at a 90-degree angle, and your elbows are at a 90-degree angle when your arms are resting on the desk. This will help to keep your spine in a neutral position and reduce strain on your muscles and joints.

If you work at a desk on a computer for over 5 hours a day, it’s necessary to invest in ergonomics. Your body will thank you down the road. 

2. Use a keyboard wrist pad. A keyboard wrist pad can help you keep your wrists in a neutral position while typing. This is important because typing with your wrists bent can lead to pain and injury. Our wrists are not meant to bend upward or downward. They need to stay in a neutral position as it naturally would. Around 3% - 6% of the adult population suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, so it’s better to prevent than treat the syndrome.

3. Take breaks. Get up and move around every 20-30 minutes to avoid muscle fatigue and pain. This will also help to improve your circulation and concentration.

Here are some additional tips for creating an ergonomic office space:

• Use a monitor arm to position your monitor at eye level. This will help to reduce neck strain.

• Use a footrest if your feet don't reach the floor comfortably. This will help to keep your knees bent at a 90-degree angle.

Some people invest in a standing desk. So when their legs need to stretch from sitting down for so long, they’re able to adjust the height of their desk and work while standing up.

• Choose a desk that is the right height for you. This will help to keep your arms and shoulders in a neutral position.

• If you find that your wrist is hurting, consider purchasing a mouse that is ergonomic. There are plenty of vertical mice that are made specifically for the ease of your wrist. 

• Make sure your lighting is adequate and doesn't create glare on your computer screen. This will help to reduce eye strain.

• Use noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs to block out distractions. This will help you to focus and be more productive.

Here are some of the benefits of having an ergonomic office space:

• Reduced pain and discomfort

• Increased productivity

• Improved mood and concentration

• Reduced risk of injury

• Increased energy levels

If you're experiencing pain or discomfort in your office, it's important to talk to your doctor or an ergonomic specialist. They can help you identify the problem and make recommendations for improving your workspace. By following these tips, you can create an office space that is comfortable and productive for you, and prevent pain and injury.