Work Stations and Ergonomic Challenge

Despite having given postural advice over the last 25 years I'd never been on a course looking at ergonomics at work. That omission has now been corrected and thanks to the enthusiasm of the Ergonomist turned Osteopath running the event I have a new found passion for getting everybody sitting comfortably. It seems to me that most people have appropriate equipment at work but often we are not using it properly, either due to lack of knowledge and training or a lack of interest. However when I first started in practice the low back was the most common place for spinal problems. Nowadays I see so many people with painful necks and shoulder girdles which are, I am sure, work related that I feel the need to start nagging and wagging my finger.

So here's the challenge;

Ask a colleague to take a snapshot of you at your desk/workstation unawares. Really get to know your chair and what all of its levers do. Do you need a footstool,( yes even men often need them too) do you need to raise/lower your screen? Walk to the printer and rather than e-mailing someone in the office get up and speak to them. Get a drink, go to the loo. All of these will break up the hours sitting in one position. Then set yourself up EVERY time you return to your desk, it'll take less than a minute. Now, dare we even look at those of us working from home. To my shame I had forgotten that 'lap top' has to be one of the worse names for a piece of kit in the history of names for a piece of kit. 'Personal computer which will give you neck and back strain if you use it on your lap' is not quite so catchy, but nearer the truth. Please I beg you, sit at a table with your screen raised, a keyboard in front of you and an ergonomic mouse. Yop can buy the keyboard and mouse, and a laptop stand for less than £35 which is the cost of a treatment from me...hang about I'm trying to put myself out of business.

Next time you're in to see me, bring that workstation picture and I'll try and advise you on how to improve your sitting habits, or give me a ring and I'll come and see you behind your desk at work.