We sit at our workstations for lengthy periods, focusing on our tasks to achieve our career goals. However, we are utterly unconscious of the harm we do to our health day after day simply by sitting for the whole day. This sedentary working life leads to a slew of health problems, some of which are catastrophic, such as heart disease, diabetes, and many others. Prolonged sitting with lousy posture also causes muscular and bone damage. This article mentions the most frequent ergonomic injuries that people who work at a desk experience daily.
Because sitting is the principal cause of several health complications, the ideal cure is to reduce your sitting time. Do not sit at your workstation for lengthy periods. Use a standing desk at work to foster an active working environment. These desks allow us to work while sitting or standing. You may limit your sitting time while simultaneously reaping the benefits of standing in this manner.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics is the science of the sort of work you do, the setting in which you work, and the instruments you use to do it. The purpose of office ergonomics is to design your workplace to be comfortable for you and your work. When your workstation is appropriately configured, you may:
- Be less prone to have migraines or eye strain.
- Alleviate the pain in your neck and back.
- Avoid bursitis and tendon problems caused by repeating the same action.
Workplace injuries and illnesses are all too prevalent. Both can waste your time and money, as well as your employer's. They could also have an impact on how effectively you perform your work. Office ergonomics might help you feel at ease at work. It can aid in the reduction of tension and damage caused by weird positions and repetitive jobs. It emphasizes how your office work environment is organized, such as:
- Your workstation configuration, how you sit, and how long you stay in one position
- How you perform a task, the types of movements you make, and whether you repeat the very same actions.
- Your working environment, including lighting, sounds, and temperature.
- The tools you use to accomplish your task and if they are configured to meet your requirements.
Common Injuries
Employees sustain workplace injuries as a result of bad posture and a lack of understanding of office ergonomics. Below are the usual injuries workers experience from office work:
1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The issue arises as a result of repetitive movements with your wrists flexed incorrectly. The incorrect wrist positioning presents this problem when using a mouse or typing. The condition will take a week or maybe a month to repair. Putting the keyboard at arm's length will prevent you from getting this dilemma. Bring your hands naturally by your sides. To combat this issue, do hand and wrist workouts. Using a sit-stand desk will allow you to set up your workspace ergonomically correct manner, resulting in a safe and healthy workplace.
2. Lower Back Issues
Your back discomfort is most likely caused by too much sitting. People who sit for more than eight hours a day suffer from back discomfort due to the strain on their back. This can result in serious injury. Fixing your sitting position can help you get rid of your back discomfort. Sit upright and comfortably, with your back against the chair's backrest. You can use a cushion to assist your spine's curve, which will help to alleviate your back pain. This difficulty can also be solved by using an ergonomic chair. A height-adjustable workstation can assist you in reaping the most benefits. You can stand and stretch to relieve muscle tension that is causing your back pain.
3. Neck Injuries
Your neck injury is the result of poor posture. We have a habit of sitting incorrectly on our chairs while working. Forward bending of the upper body is a typical posture error that we all do to have a good view of our screen. This can result in neck injury. Maintain a straight posture while sitting or standing. Keep a neutral neck position that supports the curve of your spine. To ease the problem, use an ergonomic chair and a standing desk.
4. Eye Strain
Another type of workplace risk is eye strain. It produces migraines, and treating them is tough. This condition might also lead to dry eyes. Adjust the brightness of your screen. A display with an anti-reflective coating can be used. To shield your eyes, wear anti-glare glasses. Place your monitor approximately an arm's length away from you, with the top of the screen at eye level.
5. Knee Injuries
Many people believed that since there is no break in the knee muscles, sitting could not cause knee injuries. However, sitting with poor posture causes lateral tension on your knees, which hurts your muscles.
This condition cannot be caused by the proper sitting posture. Keep your feet flat on the ground while sitting. Keep your thighs parallel to the floor by bending your knees at a 90-degree angle.
Prevention
Here are a few tips for avoiding workplace injuries:
- Place your work in front of you and sit up straight when working.
- Avoid putting too much strain on one part of your body, such as your lower back or arms.
- Shift your posture frequently.
- Instead of twisting, turn your entire body to face your work.
- Every 20 to 40 minutes, take a short break to stretch or get out of your chair. Switch to another task if possible, or take a quick trip to the break room.
- Use quality ergonomic furniture.
Adjustable Standing Desk Pro Series by FlexiSpot
Workplace injuries are preventable if you pay attention to your posture and office ergonomics. The Adjustable Standing Desk Pro Series is more than just a standing workstation with the ability to adjust its height. This desk simplifies the concept of office ergonomics.
Even with a total weight capacity of 275 lbs, the powerful dual motors allow for a maximum lifting speed of 1.4"/s (EC4). All of this may be done with the simple press of a button. The improved frame and innovative lifting system increase loading capacity while ensuring optimal stability even at the highest setting. Its innovative keypad offers three memory height settings and a customizable sit/stand reminder system, as well as an energy-efficient, LED display. You may easily switch positions and receive pleasant alerts when it's time to stand. Be sure to check out FlexiSpot to see the different tabletops for this desk that you can choose from, as well as many other ergonomic items that can support your standing journey.
Final Thought
Examine your work environment to help avoid another injury. Make sure that it is configured in the most significant way possible to suit you and your task. All businesses and employees must work together to provide a safe and secure workplace. Everyone can work together to avoid office work injuries and other safety hazards by employers responding to concerns and employees receiving suitable training.