Ergonomics reviews the fit between people, the work they perform, the tools they use, and their work environment. Therapists take into account a person's capabilities and limitations, work tasks, equipment, and environment to ensure the individual is safe, comfortable, and less prone to work-related injuries.
The five aspects of ergonomics include:
- Safety
- Comfort
- Ease of use
- Productivity/performance
- Aesthetics
Examples of ergonomic changes at work might include:
- Adjusting the position of your computer
- Changing the height and angle of your desk chair
- Learning the right way to lift heavy objects
- Utilizing special equipment or materials to limit abuse on the body
Ways to adjust your chair
- Don't stay in one position for long periods of time.
- Alternate between sitting and standing.
- Adjust height.
- Adjust the angle of the backrest.
- Support the low back.
- Sit upright with the low back and shoulders touching the backrest.
- Thighs should be parallel to the floor.
- Back of knees should not come in direct contact with the edge of the seat.
- Adjust armrests so the shoulders can relax while typing.
Stretching exercises
- Deep Breathing
- Cable Stretch
- Neck Stretch to the side
- Neck Rotation
- Shoulder Shrug
- Stretch Overhead
- Hand Rotation and Shake
- Hand Massage
- Finger Massage
- Wrist Stretch
- Hamstring stretch
- Heelcord stretch
To learn more about The Center for Rehabilitation Services at University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center or to find out if therapy may be right for you or someone you know, call 440-285-6398.