14/07/2020
Working from home?
Working from home can be Great, sluggish starts to the day, sluggish starts to the morning and sluggish posture on your works laptop.
Recently I have been getting complaints from home workers about aches pains and body stiffnesses as their livingroom/bedroom/kitchen isn’t fit for purpose, well it is fit for living purposes not for 6 or 8 hours of concentrated work purpose.
Ergonomics?
Ergonomics is the study of people at work that aims to reduce the physical stress and resulting injuries associated with working, such as overuse injuries, poor posture and more serious musculoskeletal disorders. Ergonomics aims to reduce such injuries by designing work spaces, tools, tasks and equipment that help maintain the physical health of workers. Most people dont have this at home.
These are just a few of the signs and symptoms that you may not be Ergonomically aligned with your environment. Stiff neck, stiff back, ache shoulders, ache in hips, pins and needles in arms or back of thighs. Repetitive strain injury. The only time you don’t feel an ache is when you are in your sluggish position slouched. (i'm also guilty of this sluggish posture)
Below is a picture of how to sit correctly for reduced aches and pains and good posture.
Stand and move for at least 10-15 minutes every hour.
Have objects (stapler, cup, phone etc) in arms reach, to reduce repetitive over stretching.
Have proper Lumbar support and chair.
Keep wrist table to armchair height.
Keep screen straight ahead at eye level. Eye meeting just above screen.
(this list is not exhaustive)
Temporary Working at Home - Workstation Setup Video.
https://youtu.be/Af7q5j14muc
At Vitalnrg we carry out assessments for multiple aches and pains from poor posture, wear and tear. We have also started doing a short 20-minute online assessment of your work station, offering advice and guidance.
www.vitalnrg.co.uk
Disclaimer this is good practical advise, for any chronic pain seek GP advise or a contact Vitalnrg for an assessment.