Posture Without Versus With Ergonomic Furniture
Ergonomics. It’s a word most of us have heard thrown around with but do we truly know what it means? Ergonomics is the study of how equipment and furniture can be arranged so that people can do work or other activities more efficiently and comfortably. Whether you are a student, work remotely or freelance, chances are you spend an inordinate amount of time hunched over behind a computer screen or in an otherwise seated position. Countless studies have proven that how we physically interact with our work environments has a tremendous impact on not only our physical but mental health.
What Symptoms and Risk Factors of Ergonomics Injuries?
Many people suffer ergonomic injuries without knowing it. Symptoms may include but are not limited to:
- Pain in the fingers, wrists, or other parts of the body,
- Dull aching pain,
- Sharp stabbing pain,
- Burning sensations,
- Tingling or numbness particularly in the hands or fingers,
- Swelling, inflammation, stiffness in the joints,
- Loss of muscle strength,
- Back, neck or shoulder discomfort,
- Feelings of tightness or cramping,
- Decreased range of motion and loss of coordination.
These symptoms are usually brought on by repetitive movement, poor work space design or improper workstation height which leads to poor posture and general body positioning.
What Can Be Done to Prevent Ergonomic-Related Injuries?
In order to prevent or minimize the chance of ergonomic-related injuries, there are steps that can be taken as preventative measures for people that spend significant amounts of time behind a computer or just sitting down.
Ergonomic Furniture
Perhaps the most readily available measure to prevent the onset of injuries is the implementation of ergonomic furniture in the workspace. For years the traditional workspace has been a desk, computer and a swivel chair. While this setup has proven “comfortable,” it has also taken its toll on our bodies. In recent years however, the emergence of ergonomic-friendly chairs, footrests, lumbar supports, stand-up desks, supported keyboards and laptop stands – like the Coffee Shop Hero – has allowed freelancers and remote workers to improve posture, reduce back, neck and shoulder pain along with providing relief for other ailments.
The Benefits of Ergonomic Furniture
The benefits of ergonomic furniture are countless. Perhaps most readily recognizable are the physical benefits. When those working behind computers aren’t hunched over their posture and form greatly improve leading to significantly reduced pain and discomfort. More specifically, people experience proper spine realignment which in turn can lead to reduced arthritis in the neck, shoulders and legs.
Physical Benefits
The benefits of ergonomic furniture are countless. Perhaps most readily recognizable are the physical benefits. When those working behind computers aren’t hunched over their posture and form greatly improve leading to significantly reduced pain and discomfort. More specifically, people experience proper spine realignment which in turn can lead to reduced arthritis in the neck, shoulders and legs.
Increased Productivity
When people working in a seated or stationary position experience less pain, they are highly likely to experience a significant increase in productivity. Folks who are in good health have fewer distractions which allows them to perform at their best and be increasingly efficient with their time.
Increased Wellness
When we talk about wellness, we are not just talking about physical health, but mental health as well. It is proven that people who are in good health are genuinely happier. In what is quite obviously a domino effect, happy people tend to be more motivated and therefore produce high-quality work and are efficient with their time.
Though it is all too often said, our health is indeed our greatest asset. And while we may be excited and passionate about performing research in a cutting-edge field, working from a home office or remotely in a coffee shop it is imperative for our longevity that we do not neglect our health. With this is mind, recognizing the signs and symptoms of ergonomic-related ailments and taking the necessary preventative measures could likely prove to be a priceless investment for years to come.