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Workplace Ergonomics - Tips for Maintaining Optimal Health and Energy in the Workplace

Written By Levinson Chiropractic & Vax-D Therapy on June 26, 2020

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Did you know that approximately 83 million work days are lost per year due to back pain? Back pain is a serious problem for working adults, as are a multitude of other physical issues, such as spinal disc herniations, carpal tunnel syndrome, and others.

Keeping a focus on workplace ergonomics can help to eliminate many of these troublesome issues from your life. Workplace ergonomics is the process of designing or arranging items (such as furniture) and systems in the workplace in a way that reduces the risk of injury or harm. The overall goal of workplace ergonomics is to create a workplace that is comfortable, safe, and productive.

Improving Workplace Ergonomics 

Use the following tips to promote better ergonomics in your workplace: 

  • Identify warning signs that indicate poor posture and ergonomics. The first thing you want to do is identify whether your pain results from poor ergonomics and posture. If it is, your pain will likely be worse at specific times during the day or week (for example, after a long day at work). Another sign is that your pain will typically start in your neck and move downwards into your upper and low back and extremities. 

  • Improve your posture. Whether you spend most of your day sitting or standing, improving your work posture is imperative. When you are standing, distribute the weight of your body evenly. When sitting, sit upright and align your hips, shoulders, and ears vertically. Avoid unbalanced positions like leaning toward one side, crossing your legs while sitting, tilting your head, or hunching your shoulders. 

  • Move and stretch!  We as humans are meant to move. If you spend long hours of the day sitting, your body will eventually become fatigued, even if you are trying to maintain a good work posture. Throughout the day, take frequent breaks to stretch and move around. Doing so will result in increased energy and productivity. 

  • Invest in ergonomic props and furniture. Investing in ergonomic props and furniture will pay off tremendously. For example, you can invest in ergonomic office chairs with back support. Footrests, lumbar back supports, or simply a small pillow or towel can help to improve posture while sitting. Wrist rests help to reduce contact stress.

Benefits of Improving Workplace Ergonomics 

Following the tips above to improve workplace ergonomics will result in many benefits. According to OSHA, improving ergonomics in your workplace can result in increased savings, fewer employees suffering from pain, increased productivity and morale, and reduced absenteeism. 

Start today by taking just a few small steps to improve your workplace ergonomics. Struggling with back pain? Contact Levinson Chiropractic today for expert chiropractic treatment and advice.


Posted In: Chiropractic Posture Workplace Ergonomics