Correct Desk Sitting
By Rachel Carver
Sitting is the new smoking these days. Many of us work long hours at our desks. And with telework becoming the new normal, we fill our previous commute times with more desk work. Avoid neck, back, and shoulder pain with these tips.
Support Your Back
Adjust your chair to support your lower back. Positioning your chair correctly will reduce the risk of back pain. Find a chair that allows you to change the height, back position, and tilt. Your knees should be slightly lower than your hips. Your wrists and forearms should be straight while you type. Your arms should form an L-shape at the elbow joint and should be close to your body.
Rest Your Feet Flat on the Floor
Your feet should be flat when you sit in your chair. Ask for a foot rest if needed to place your feet at a comfortable level. Crossing your legs could contribute to posture-related problems.
Line Your Screen up With Your Eyes
Place your screen directly in front of you while sitting. It should be about an arm's length away, with the top of the monitor even with your eyes. Stands allow you to easily adjust the screen position. You want to avoid bending your neck to see your screen content. This can cause pain and put your neck and shoulders out of alignment.
Place Your Keyboard Straight in Front of You
You want your keyboard directly in line with your hands to avoid wrist strain. Leave a 4- to 6-inch gap at the front of the desk. This gives you a place to rest your wrists during typing gaps.
Avoid Reaching for the Mouse
Keep your mouse close because you use it often. A mouse mat with a wrist pad can help position your wrist correctly to avoid awkward bending. Move your keyboard if you only need your mouse to complete multiple tasks.
Take Breaks
Try to stand at least once every hour. We often find ourselves losing track of time as we power through our to-do lists, but staying in one position too long will result in pain. Stand up to make a phone call, or take a quick lap around your office or house.
Pay attention to your body. Even with proper ergonomics, prolonged sitting can put strain on your body. Routine adjustments at The Joint Chiropractic clinic near you will relieve pain and loosen tight joints. Make your office life more comfortable with chiropractic care. The Joint offers walk-in visits and affordable pricing to everyone who walks through the doors.
To learn more about good posture, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Sugar Land, Texas.