Proper ergonomics for the workplace.
It is common to experience discomfort when sitting or standing for long periods due to poor posture. In order to maintain proper posture at a desk, it is important to sit with your back straight, the lower back supported by your chair and feet flat on the ground or on a foot rest. If working at a computer, elbows should be held close to your body and the monitor should be an arms length away with your eyesight at the top third of the monitor .
Movements that increase the mobility of the spine while in a seated position can be found on our youtube channel. These stretches should be done at least 2-3 times a day in order to increase spinal mobility and decrease stiffness and discomfort.
For those who work on their feet, it is important not to be immobile for long periods. Standing in one place for long periods can put stress on the body, so keep moving in order to keep blood flowing to muscles. When working on a phone or handheld device, do not spend a considerable amount of time with your head and neck bowed over the mobile device. Dr. Gustin recommends limiting the amount of time spent on a mobile device in order to avoid getting “text neck,” which is the stiffness and discomfort that results from being bent over a cell phone for long periods of time.
For computer workers Dr. Jacobs recommends, “Every 20 minutes, look up from the computer 20 feet away for 20 seconds; this a good micro break that can reset your posture and take stress off your eyes.”
Although standing desks can decrease the amount of stress on the low back, this will not prevent pain and discomfort. The best posture for humans is movement. Many of the reasons patients come into our Financial District location can be prevented through proper ergonomics and an individualized exercise plan that combats the specific nature of their complaints.
SF Custom Chiropractic also offers ergonomic evaluations for individuals and companies within the San Francisco area. Educational health talks about workplace ergonomics, sports injuries, and dealing with stress are also a key component to maintaining top functionality within the workplace.
Call our office at (415) 788-8700 to learn more about healthy workplace ergonomics and how chiropractic care can help facilitate optimal and pain free functioning. Join in on this discussions on ergonomics and posture on Facebook to be entered for a chance to win a free one hour massage.
