When you work from home, you typically have more control over your work environment and work schedule. You can improve your work from home set-up to reduce the risk of aches and pains and repetitive stress injuries. You can also take breaks to stretch. Here are some tips for making your work from home set-up healthier.
Make Your Workstation More Ergonomic
Workplace ergonomics is the proactive use of equipment and office furniture that reduces your risk of strain, stress, and pain. Examples of ergonomic office furniture include sit-stand desks, adjustable office chairs, monitor stands, wrist pads, lumbar cushions, footrests, and arched keyboards. Using ergonomic office equipment and furniture will make it easier to maintain proper posture while working, prevent repetitive stress injuries, and avoid muscle, joint, and eye strain.
Maintain Proper Posture
Maintaining proper posture will lower your risk of back, neck, and shoulder pain. When seated at your computer, adjust your chair so that your feet are flat on the floor and your thighs are tilted slightly downward. Your back should be flat against the back of the chair. You can use a footstool if needed. Adjust the height of your computer monitor so that the center of the screen is at eye level. This prevents the need to tilt your head up or down to see the screen, which in turn reduces neck pain and eye strain. Wrist pads will keep your wrists level while you type and reduce your risk of carpal tunnel pain.
Take Breaks as Needed
You can further reduce your risk of muscle strain, stiffness, inflammation, edema, and aches and pains by taking breaks as needed. Get up at least once per hour to walk around and stretch. You can avoid eye strain by taking a break from screens every hour as well.
Improve Your Work from Home Set-Up
If you’re ready to improve your work from home set-up, check out our equipment at HealthPostures. We carry a wide range of quality, affordable ergonomic and adjustable office equipment and furniture. To learn more about our inventory and selection, call us today at (800) 277-1841 or find a dealer online.