Office Ergonomics: Fighting Discomfort

It's never fun to be uncomfortable in the workplace. Sadly, too many of us just accept the discomfort and fail to reach peak performance levels. The time for change is now. No longer can we sit through our work days operating at a major disadvantage. It's time we all start fighting discomfort effectively and take control of life in the office.

Fighting discomfort starts with good habits. If you find yourself leaning forward and away from your office chair to type, kick this bad habit to the curb. Instead, keep your back in contact with the chair at all times. Doing this will help support your back far more efficiently.

Don't sit with your legs crossed out in front of your or propped up on the base of your office chair. Commit to keeping your feet flat on the ground and facing forwards at all times. If you have trouble sticking to this good habit, consider the addition of an ergonomic footrest. Brands like Symmetry Office offer affordable models that will greatly aid you in your fight against discomfort.

Are you looking down or up at your computer screen when typing? This common issue causes significant eye and neck strain. Fight discomfort effectively by raised your monitor to eye level. While an ergonomic monitor arm is the preferred solution, those looking to save a few bucks can just use a stack of books.

The ergonomic chair you select will play a major role in your overall comfort throughout the work day. Before selecting a new chair, take the time to analyze your areas of sitting discomfort. Take into account important factors that are often overlooked like the dimensions of the office chairs you're considering.

Things To Look For In An Office Chair:

• Adjustable Arms
• Multi Functional Mechanism
• Lumbar Support
• Waterfall Seat Edge
• Well Padded Surfaces
• Adjustable Back and Tilt Functions

Wether your chair is new or old, take the time to master it's feature. Rest assured, even the most luxurious office seating is only as good as it's owners habits. Don't be afraid to adjust the chair height, back, and arms throughout your work day. Be willing to adapt to any situation to ensure the optimal operational position.

Fatigue and comfort go hand in hand. If your tired, you're not at your best. If you're not at your best, you're uncomfortable. Fight fatigue by eliminating extended sits. About once an hour, take a short break. Stand up, stretch, and take a short walk. Adjustable height ergonomic desks are also available to help. Brands like Global Total Office and Mayline have introduced electronic desks just this year that promote continuous movement in the workplace. An adjustable ergonomic workstation will help you increase blood flow, reduce muscle stiffness, and kick fatigue in the butt!

Last but certainly not least, don't settle for a sub par keyboard tray. In years passed, basic retractable models where thought to be the bees knees. That being said, the ergonomic standard has been raised drastically in the last year alone. To type at comfortable and correct angles, you'll need an articulating tray and mechanism. Integrating an articulating keyboard tray into your workstation will revolutionize the way you compute. You'll be more comfortable, functional, and versatile in no time at all.

The fight against discomfort is never over. We have to keep evolving and striving for success. Studies have shown that placing a simple list of posture reminders by your desk will yield great results. Don't be fooled into thinking that getting comfortable has to cost a fortune. There's lots of great ways to improve your work day within arms reach. Mastering your chair, practicing good posture habits, and taking short breaks are a must. Take these points to heart. Commit to them and take control of your personal comfort.