While working at a desk, it’s easy to adopt a poor posture. This poor posture could lead to health problems in the long run. Below are a few tips for improving your posture while working..
Why you should look after your posture
Poor posture can lead to various aches and cramps – some of which could become chronic. This could include lower back pain, neck pain, shoulder cramps or knee pain. This in turn could lead to poor productivity and a lot of stress. In the long run, you could be more likely to develop issues like kyphosis (a hunchback) or heart disease/a stroke from poor circulation and stress.
What is a good posture?
The perfect posture to adopt while sitting at a desk is with your back straight and body facing forward. By not leaning forward or twisting, you reduce the pressure on the spine and shoulders.
Your elbows should be level with the keyboard while typing and you should be near you body. If you have to extend your arms out or reach upwards, you could be increasing the risk of RSIs in your arms
Your feet should meanwhile be able to rest flat on the floor or on a foot rest. Your legs shouldn’t be curled up under the chair or hanging. This can prevent circulatory problems and knee pain developing.
Ways to improve your posture
Adopting a better posture while working at a desk could involve making improvements to your workspace. Certain ergonomic improvements could make it easier to naturally adopt the right composure.
Upgrade your chair
You should start by considering your chair. An ergonomic office chair is likely to give your body the support it needs. Such chairs usually have adjustable height options, an adjustable headrest and possible adjustable armrests too. All of this can help prevent issues such as leaning forward or having to stretch arms.
Of course, you don’t need to have a chair or even a desk. A bean bag could be much better for your posture because it’s able to mould to your body shape. If you work from a laptop consider whether an office beanbag might be a better option. This Yogibo vs Moon Pod review compares two popular options. It’s important to choose a good quality bean bag that will offer the right support.
Make sure your desk is at the right height
If you decide to work at a desk, make sure that your desk is at the right height. A height adjustable chair could allow you to position yourself at the right height so that your elbows are level with the keyboard. Alternatively, you could look into a height adjustable desk. Some of these desks can even be used while standing – which could give you the option to work without having to sit down all day.
Give yourself enough elbowroom and legroom
Having enough elbow room and legroom is important. Make sure that there are no objects directly either side of your chair such as a wall or a filing cabinet – if you have to constantly tuck in one elbow or lean to the side, it could cause spinal and shoulder issues. You should also be able to comfortably stretch your feet under your desk. Make sure that your desk isn’t too shallow or that there are no objects underneath your desk.
No comments yet.