Working from home was already a popular trend before 2020. Since the start of the pandemic, though, it’s become “the new normal” for many companies.
In fact, 74% of business owners plan to allow some (or all) of their employees to continue working from home after the pandemic ends.
Remote work has its perks, but it also has a major drawback — it’s a challenge to create an ergonomic workspace at home. Even if you’re still commuting to the office, desk ergonomics don’t come automatically.
Want to do your neck, back, and overall health a favor? Keep reading to learn how to create an ergonomic workstation wherever you are.
Table of Contents
Start With Your Chair
When you hear the words “ergonomic computer equipment,” you probably picture a fancy chair with all the bells and whistles. That’s great if you can afford one, but the most important thing is finding a chair that fits your body best.
Start by sitting all the way back in the chair, so the curve supports your lumbar spine. Adjust the height of the seat so that your feet are flat on the floor, with your knees slightly below your hips. There should be a few fingers’ width of space between the edge of the seat and the backs of your calves.
Better yet, switch to a standing desk if it’s within your budget!
Align Your Monitor
For your neck to be in the most comfortable position, your eyes should align with the top quarter of your computer screen. Any lower than that and you’ll hunch forward, straining your neck and shoulders. Ideally, your monitor should be about an arm’s length away.
It’s easier than ever to position your monitor at the correct height and angle. For example, www.dataflex-int.com/en offers laptop risers, monitor arms, and other tools to help you create an ergonomic workspace.
Position Your Keyboard & Mouse
Most people work with their keyboards up on their desks, which is usually too high for proper office ergonomics. Instead, try using a keyboard tray to keep your arms and wrists at a more natural angle.
To avoid stressing your wrist, move the mouse using your shoulder and upper arm, rather than moving your hand from side to side. This will help you stave off unpleasant injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Take Regular Breaks
Even if you have the perfect ergonomic workstation, it’s still important to get up and take short breaks. After all, humans weren’t designed to sit all day — we were designed to move!
Set a timer and make a goal of getting up every 20 minutes, even if it’s only for a minute or two. Stretch, take a quick walk, or make a cup of coffee or tea. You can also use the 20-20-20 rule (look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes) to avoid eye strain.
Create an Ergonomic Workspace Anywhere
Work-from-home trends are here to stay. Even if you still commute to the office, you may struggle to get comfortable during those long days on the computer.
Wherever you find yourself working, use these tips to create a more ergonomic workspace. Your long-term health will thank you for it!
Now that you know more about office ergonomics, what’s next? Keep browsing our site for more interesting articles like this one.
