How To Create An Ergonomic-Friendly Workspace

Sitting at a desk all day doesn’t have to equate to health problems. Sometimes the smallest change to your desk height or mouse positioning can make the biggest difference in the way you feel. Take note of your current workspace and how your body feels at the end of the workday. If your neck, back, wrist, or legs ache, you may want to make these adjustments to your workspace.

Computer Monitor Height And Distance

Your monitor is the key piece of technology you use during the day. If you have this piece in the right place, you have a good foundation for placing your other office infrastructure in an ergonomically effective position. Make sure that your computer is an arm’s length away from you and is at eye level. This will enable your keyboard to be in the best place for you to type. Your arms should be able to naturally reach your keyboard with a slight bend in the elbow while your eyes are looking directly at your screen.

Mouse Placement

The mouse should be within easy reach and on the same level as your keyboard. While you’re typing or clicking, be sure to keep your wrists straight, your upper arms close to your body, and your hands aligned with your elbows. This will help support your muscles and joints in order to prevent pains and strains.

Desk Measurements

Allowing space for your legs under your desk is a key component to sitting comfortably and effectively. Your legs should be able to bend at a 90-degree angle without being cramped. If your desk is too high, adjust your chair until you’re at a good height. If your desk is too low, consider placing sturdy blocks under the legs.

Chair Qualities

Choose a chair that supports your lower back. It should have a lumbar support system as well as flexibility for you to slightly lean back. The height of the chair should enable you to rest your feet flat on the floor and your thighs should be parallel to the floor. The chair’s armrests should be at a height where your arms can gently rest on them while your shoulders are relaxed.

While creating an ergonomic-friendly workspace can help prevent or ease the pains from conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and sciatica, it doesn’t completely heal them. You might consider a consultation with a chiropractor to discuss methods of healing the damaged tissue and returning full range of motion.

Our team of wellness doctors, Vasili Gatsinaris, DC, QME, James Kim, DC, Adam Abulghualya, DC, BS, ART and Caprice Leonard, MA, ATC specialize in chiropractic and wellness care, especially for workplace injuries. Our Irvine chiropractic office is located near John Wayne Airport, convenient for people living in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Tustin, Santa Ana and other surrounding Orange County communities.

Let our Orange County chiropractic team make a plan and treat your injury so that you are not restricted from your active lifestyle. To learn more about our variety of services or to schedule an appointment, take advantage of our new patient special and contact us or call 949-263-9003 today.