Make Your Workspace Better
By Sara Butler
You spend a lot of time at work -- probably 40 hours or more per week. Don't you think that because you spend so much time there that it's worth it to make your workspace just a little healthier? The chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic want you to have the healthiest workspace around. Here are some tips you can use to help improve your office ergonomics and stay healthy even when you're slaving away.
Your Chair
You spend a lot of time in that work chair, which makes the need for a chair that helps to support a healthy posture as important as ever. You must have a chair that fits you well and is comfortable, but it should also have:
- Arm supports
- An adjustable height lever
- The ability to swivel back and forth
- Proper lumbar support
Of course, having a comfortable chair is only part of the healthy office equation because, in order to really be healthy, you have to get up out of the chair regularly too. Try setting a reminder on your phone to help you remember to get up at least once an hour. During this small break, get up, walk around a bit, and do a few simple stretches. This will help break the posture you've been sitting in and keep your body healthy.
Your Accessories
The cool little gadgets you have to make your workday easier, especially your keyboard and mouse, can be important. If you don't already have an ergonomic mouse and keyboard, you should invest in them. Spending hours per day resting your hands and wrists in unnatural positions can lead to big problems down the road, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Workplace accessories that are designed to be ergonomic help to provide a more comfortable position and will pay off by helping you to avoid pain and discomfort.
Your Computer Screen
Most people sit above their computers and due to this must tilt their head down to look at the screen properly. This places a strain on your neck, shoulders, and back, so it's something that must be remedied in order to keep you healthy.
Your computer screen should be at eye level or just a little bit below. To achieve this, you may need to invest in a stand for your monitor or you can just stack up a few books to get the screen to eye level. How you do it isn't important, it's just important that you get it done!
Healthy habits at work can do a lot to improve your overall health, so invest in your workspace comfort!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Mansfield, Tex.