WORKPLACE ERGONOMICS IN THE HOME

What is “ergonomics?”

  • The study of people’s efficiency in their working environment
  • Not just efficiency, but also comfort and extrapolated from there – safety
  • Ergonomics encompasses physical, cognitive and organizational realms

Why is it important?

  • Good ergonomics = Good Outcomes
    • Improved efficiency
    • Increased productivity
    • Decreased risk of injury
  • Bad ergonomics = Bad Outcomes
    • Risk of injury
      • Carpal tunnel, tendinopathies, back pain
    • Decreased productivity
    • Decreased efficiency

What are GOOD physical ergonomics?

  • In summary – think of putting yourself in 90/90 positioning
    • Hips and knees at the same level, feet flat on the floor
    • Straight back with a chair that supports natural curve of the spine
    • Elbows bent to (or slightly short of) 90*
    • Computer monitor at (or slightly below) eye level and arms’ length away
    • Frequent rest breaks!

What if I’m stuck working at home?

  • GET CREATIVE!!
    • Foot stool or empty box if working at bar height station
    • Pillow, sweat shirt or towel roll if a straight back chair only option
    • Books or paper reams to raise monitor
    • Order a wireless keyboard for your laptop to separate monitor and keyboard

Call us if you’ve been working from home too long and something hurts!

Emily Perkins, PT, DPT, COMT – Bluffton Clinic

About Emily:

After getting my ATC, I wanted to further my education to reach a bigger patient population so I continued my schooling in order to become a PT.  My favorite part of this job is getting to meet new people and learn new things every day.  A fun fact about myself is I am passionate about riding, training, and working with horses and riders to help them achieve their goals.