Do long hours in the office leave you with back and neck pain? If so, you may need to consider ergonomics in the workplace.

What is ergonomics? Simply, it’s the process of setting up a desk and office in a way that reduces discomfort for the user.

Done correctly, ergonomics can increase productivity, improve employee morale, and lead to fewer office absences due to pain or discomfort.

If you’re wondering how you can make your home office more ergonomically-friendly, keep reading for our top tips.

1. Adjust Your Chair to the Right Height

One of our top ergonomics tips is to make sure your chair is at the right height. This helps your posture and can help you avoid back and neck pain.

You know your office chair is at the correct height if your elbows are at the same height as your keyboard and mouse. The top of your computer monitor should be at eye height.

Sit with your feet firmly on the ground, straight back, or try a footstool to help ease back pain.

2. Call an Expert When It Comes to Ergonomics in the Workplace

Ergonomics can be tricky sometimes if you’re new to the concept. If you’re working from home and want some assistance or you’re trying to manage ergonomics for the office staff, it can help to call an expert.

There are plenty of ergonomics experts who can come to your workplace and offer an assessment to correct your office set-up.

3. Take Breaks to Avoid RSI

RSI, or repetitive strain injury, is one of the most common injuries for office workers. It’s caused by long-term, repeated movements, but is frequently found in tendons of the wrist by those who type often.

Taking regular breaks, stretching, and having proper posture can minimize your risk of RSI.

4. Try a Standing Desk

Increasingly, workers are turning to standing desks. We know sitting all day isn’t good for us, so standing desks allow you the advantages of standing while you work. When standing, you should make sure that your feet are properly positioned so you don’t feel fatigued, which is why shoe inserts from Protalus are a great investment.

If you switch between a sitting and standing desk, look for an ergonomic choice keyboard stand to adjust the height of your keyboard as needed.

5. Use the Right Mouse and Mousepad

Many workers find that an ergonomic mouse and keyboard help prevent RSI and relieve strain on the back and wrists. Ergonomic keyboards are curved in a way that is easier on your hands and wrists, while an ergonomic mouse is designed to work with your hand in a more natural, comfortable way.

Use These Ergonomics Tips to Improve Your Health

Proper ergonomics in the workplace can go a long way in keeping you and your employees healthy and happy, so it’s certainly worth investing the time to understand it.

To get started, use the tips below to work with your staff or set up your home office in a comfortable, ergonomically-friendly way. If you’re working long hours at your desk, your body will thank you!

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