How Is My Workspace Affecting My Posture?

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Did you know that an improperly-configured workspace can cause posture problems that lead to wrist, shoulder, neck, and back pain? It’s true, and as more people begin working from home, ergonomics is becoming a bigger and bigger issue among professionals.

So in this blog from Vidan Family Chiropractic, we’ll take a look at a few common ergonomic issues that may cause posture issues, as well as other problems like chronic pain. Read on, and make sure you take steps to create a healthier, more ergonomic workspace.

Workspace Affecting Posture

1. Hunching Over A Laptop

If you work on a desk or on a kitchen table with your laptop without an external monitor, you’ll tend to hunch over and look downward. This can cause “text neck,” a painful condition affecting your neck that’s caused by poor posture. It can also contribute to back and shoulder pain.

The best way to solve this problem is to invest in an external monitor, as well as an external keyboard and mouse. You’ll be able to set your monitor up at a proper height to protect your neck. You’ll also be able to set up your keyboard and mouse comfortably, so you won’t have to hunch over your laptop.

2. Looking At Monitors That Are Too Low

Even if you have an external monitor, you’ll want to make sure it’s at the proper height. If it’s too low or high, this puts excessive strain on your neck. The top of your monitor’s screen should be at or slightly below eye level. Proper monitor positioning means your neck will be able to stay in a neutral position while looking at the screen.

3. Having Incorrect Keyboard And Mouse Height

If your keyboard and mouse are too high or low, you could end up with poor posture, or even be at risk of RSI (repetitive stress injury) or carpal tunnel syndrome. Ideally, your keyboard and mouse should be at elbow height.

This allows your shoulders to relax while you’re typing and working. If your keyboard is too high or low, your shoulders may stay tense. The proper keyboard height also prevents you from resting your wrists on your table or desk while typing, which can contribute to RSI and other typing-induced injuries

4. Sitting In A Poor-Quality Office Chair

If you have a cheap office chair, you may not have enough height adjustments and angle adjustments to promote proper posture. Or, the cushioning and lumbar support may not be adequate. All of these factors can lead to issues with your posture, and related pain and discomfort.

You should invest in a high-quality office chair. When seated, your feet should rest on the floor, and the backrest of your chair should offer plenty of support for your lower and middle back. A properly-sized, high-quality office chair will keep you supported and will encourage better posture.

5. Working On A Sofa Or In Bed

You should never work on a sofa or in bed for a prolonged period of time. It may feel comfortable, but you’ll be slouching, straining your neck, and placing your wrists and hands in an awkward position. You may also be less likely to get up, move around, and take breaks. That can worsen postural issues and pain.

There’s nothing wrong with sending a quick email from the couch if you need to. But for most of your work day, you need to be sitting in a dedicated, ergonomic, and comfortable workspace.

Need Help? Come To Vidan Family Chiropractic!

If you’re in pain and you think your workspace may be the cause, Dr. Alex Vidan is here to help. With chiropractic adjustments and ergonomic advice, our team can help with neck pain, middle back pain, lower back pain,carpal tunnel, and more. Contact us online or give us a call at 314-210-6556 to schedule an appointment, and get the help you need from a chiropractor in St. Louis.

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