Question By: With the extended time spent working, correct workplace postures are critical for preventing injury, maintaining health, and improving productivity. Poor workplace posture is a major cause of back pain, workplace stress and can lead to repetitive strain injuries. This can result in poor employee health and low morale which will ultimately lead onto reduced productivity, lost time and higher business costs.
Effects Of Poor Posture
• Poor joint alignment
• General muscle/head aches
• Increased shear forces within the spine effecting disc integrity
• Compression of disc and joint structures
• Compression/reduced space for nerves to course through the body
• Reduced blood flow to muscles resulting in increased fatigue
• Overuse injuries
4 Tips to improve your posture while you work
A standing desk
Upgrading your office equipment to include standing desks gives employees the option to spend a portion of their day standing, meaning pressure is taken off the neck and back, encouraging movement and a neutral spine position.
2. Ergonomics
In 2014, the University of Sydney found that a third of all worldwide work-related disability was linked to lower back pain caused by the work environment and recommended improving ergonomic environments as a key initiative in minimising these numbers. The first place to start is, of course, our desk setup which contributes significantly to how we position ourselves throughout the day and our chances of sustaining an injury.
3. Neck position
How you hold your neck is imperative to the health of your spine and your chances of developing a workplace injury. Straining to see a computer monitor that is too close or far away, or juggling dual screens by twisting from the neck rather than using the movement of your swivel chair compromises good posture and can strain your neck, back and shoulder muscles and joints.
4. Get moving and don’t forget to stretch
One of the most important and easiest ways to improve your posture at work and therefore decrease the chance of workplace injury is through movement. Implementing a movement program that requires employees to do stretches and take regular short walks, will not only help to reduce any existing pain but is proven in preventing future injury.
As a leading ergonomic solutions provider, BodyBilt is equipped to help you. They offer the ability to single-source ergonomic seating and accessory products, ranging from Task to Manufacturing, and Laboratory to Executive seating for a variety of industries.
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