Workspace Ergonomics

It’s the reality of living in today’s digital age—spending extended hours daily working at desks or on computers with less-than-optimal posture. Hunching over workstations can significantly impact people’s bodies if the workspace setup isn’t ergonomically sound. Moreover, those who work in physically demanding jobs, such as labourers, often experience strain from repetitive movements, heavy lifting, and awkward postures, which can lead to musculoskeletal discomfort and injuries over time.

How Poor Ergonomics Lead to Musculoskeletal Issues

When a workspace setup doesn’t provide proper ergonomic support, the body is forced into unnatural positions. For desk workers, this could mean a hunched back or a forward head posture due to a low monitor, while those who work in labour-intensive roles often face strain from repetitive lifting or bending.

Both scenarios can stress the spine and joints, causing muscular imbalances and contributing to pain and fatigue. Regular strain like this can develop into musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), including back, neck, and shoulder pain.

The Role of Chiropractic Care

Dr Luke Hennessy (Chiropractor) offers chiropractic care to relieve pain and correct posture issues associated with poor ergonomics. He performs chiropractic adjustments to realign the spine and address musculoskeletal imbalances. The result? Reduced strain on the body’s support structures, leading to greater comfort and flexibility.

Additionally, Dr Hennessy examines the entire body to identify any root causes of discomfort, addressing the whole person with tailored adjustments that align with each individual’s needs and goals.

Simple Tips for a Healthier Workspace

For desk-based workers:

• Screen Placement: Position your monitor at eye level and about an arm’s length away, which can help prevent neck and eye strain.
• Chair Adjustments: Adjust your chair so your feet are flat on the ground, keeping your knees at a 90-degree angle. Use lumbar support to maintain your spine’s natural curve.
• Keyboard and Mouse Positioning: Place these tools close to your body so your elbows are at a right angle when typing, minimising unnecessary reach.
• Movement Breaks: Even with the best setup, sitting for long periods isn’t ideal. Make it a habit to stand, stretch, or take a short walk every 30-60 minutes to keep your body limber.

For those in more physical roles:

• Proper Lifting: When lifting, always bend at the knees and hold items close to your body to reduce back strain.
• Alternate Tasks: Try to rotate between tasks to avoid overusing the same muscles, which can lead to repetitive strain injuries.
• Ergonomic Tools: Utilise tools that lessen the physical demands of repetitive movements to help safeguard your body from strain.