As we move into the fall and winter months, most of us will gradually exercise less. The exercise you typically get when the weather is nicer can offset the effects of repetitive stress injuries you may encounter because of long days in the office. The lack of exercise in winter can make these injuries more evident and less manageable. That’s why it’s so important to create a healthy work environment, especially in the colder months.
You can add a variety of simple and inexpensive items to your workstation to make it more comfortable and convenient for your body while you work. For instance, the addition of hand, wrist, and leg rests to your desk can cost you less than $85, but increase your efficiency and productivity dramatically. To transform your ordinary office chair into an ergonomic chair, purchase a lumbar back rest or back pad for around $50.
Your eyes can experience a large amount of stress during the darker months because of long hours at your computer. Use desk lamps and screen filters to reduce this stress. Also, keep the center of your monitor as near your natural eye-height as possible and at least 16” away from your face. Do your best to take breaks from looking at your computer to allow your eyes to rest.
For more serious back, neck, and arm discomfort, an ergonomic chair may be necessary. Ergonomic chairs help give your body proper posture to make working while sitting more comfortable and less stressful. Over an extended period of time, people benefit tremendously from an ergonomically created workspace. Your tendency this winter will be to work longer hours and get less exercise, why not make your workstation as comfortable as possible?
