Ergonomics: Get Your Study Space Right
How do you sit at your computer? Does it ever lead to pain? If you study or work in an office, read on to learn how you can setup your workstation ergonomically. Ergonomics refers to the design or arrangement of a workstation to suit the user.
Commonly affected areas due to poor workstation setup are the shoulders and neck, wrist, and elbows. Practicing good ergonomics can reduce pain and discomfort.
5 Tips to Setup an Ergonomic Workstation
- The chair should have a backrest (lumbar support).
- Adjust the chair height (desk should be at elbow level when sitting upright).
- Use a footstool if feet are off the ground.
- Adjust monitor so the top is at eye level.
- The keyboard and mouse need to be within reach, keeping elbows by your side. (Don’t reach out.)
Laptops and tablets don’t allow for good ergonomics because they tend to pull your shoulders and neck downward. The keyboard and screen need to be separated. Get yourself a wireless keyboard and mouse and put the laptop up at the correct height (either on a docking station or even just a stack of books). This will help you maintain good posture.
Try not to sit at your computer desk for long periods of time. Setting up your workstation correctly takes only minutes to do, is not expensive, and means you’ll have a better study or work experience.