Components of an ergonomic office

The word “ergonomic” refers to office equipment that is comfortable and safe. Sitting for long periods of time at a desk can be harmful to your health. Statistics show that extended time sitting at a work desk can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, muscle fatigue, neck and back pain, and a big range of other musculoskeletal disorders.

Fortunately, in recent years there has been growing awareness to rethink how our offices are set up, with a focus on designing ergonomic office furniture that works in harmony with our physical needs. There are many solutions, such as contoured keyboards specially designed to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome. Then of course there are office chairs, designed for increased lumbar support, which prevents muscle strain and back pain.

Best benefits of ergonomic furniture

Aside from the obvious health benefits, ergonomic furniture increases productivity in the workplace. Simply, the more comfortable the employee is, the better their output. On the other hand, employees with sore bodies, tight backs, poor flexibility and strained eyes will suffer significantly decreased productivity.

Do you want a team of stiff, wheezing low-energy workers on the front lines of your business? The reason so many offices are now investing in ergonomic office wares is because in the long run, their productivity - and revenue - will increase.

Key parts of an ergonomic workspace

Before planning an ergonomic office makeover, start by reviewing your options to cover the following core components:

Ergonomic desks

Many offices are experimenting with standing desks, to varying degrees of success. In theory, these are designed to eliminate prolonged sitting time. Considering that cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer are all linked to sedentary lifestyles, these desks may prove to be a key part of a wider makeover. However, just like too much sitting is bad for you, so is too much standing. Ideally, switch between a standing desk and a traditional desk set to the proper height.

Also, build awareness to your working space. Is your desk cramped? Do your legs have enough room? Make sure to choose a desk  that is the correct height and size, as it will make a huge difference in your comfort and productivity.

Ergonomic chairs 

Since you will spend almost eight hours per day sitting at a desk, it’s worth the effort to convince your boss to invest in ergonomic office chairs. The key thing is to select a chair with plenty of back support. When seated with poor posture, your pelvis, head and shoulders become misaligned, which causes discomfort by putting pressure on your spine. The spine naturally curves inward in the lower back (lumbar region), but by slouching we push the spine outwards. A good office chair will include a backrest that curves inwards at the bottom, which provides excellent spine support.

It’s also important to make sure your office chair has height adjustability. Since most desks aren’t adjustable, a good chair should be. Make sure your feet can plant firmly on the ground, thighs parallel to the floor, knees bent at 90 degrees. Your arms should be able to comfortably reach the keyboard, and your eyes should be able to easily see the monitor without straining the neck.

Ergonomic keyboards 

These allow you to type in a manner that allows for more natural arm placement. While most keyboards force you to hunch into cramped space, ergonomic models spread your arms out further, which reduces strain in the wrists, shoulders and neck. At the start these will seem clunky and awkward, but be patient - once you get used to it, your risk of  developing carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive motion injuries will decline.

Beyond the desk: healthy lifestyle habits 

Building the ultimate ergonomic office setup is not the end of your journey, but just the start. Even if you have the perfect tools, you need to use them correctly.

To start with, pay attention to your posture. While it will still be tempting to slouch in your ergonomic office chair, the best chairs are designed to make sloppy posture uncomfortable. So go with the flow of your chair and reap the rewards! If you have been slouching for years, it will take time to get used to a new way of sitting. Be mindful, patient and disciplined.

As your posture begins to smoothen out, take things to the next level by taking stretch breaks away from your desk every few hours. Even while in your chair you can stretch. Try stretching your legs out in front of you and reaching for your toes. Another good one is to clasp your hands and reach them in front of you, with your head between your shoulders. Shoulder shrugs are also effective at easing tension in your neck and shoulders.

Then there is the option of regular physical exercise - but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Get your ergonomic office set up, get your posture sorted, and then let’s talk about taking your physical fitness to a higher level.