Stand and Deliver
I know we have covered ergonomics - the science of fitting the workplace to the user's needs - before. However, recently we have been talking to a number of patients about whether a standing desk is a good option.
As we spend 8+ hours per day looking at our screens the importance of good posture at your desk is paramount.
For those returning to the office or a hybrid working pattern, you may well find your employers are more switched on to recognising the importance of a good working environment - essential for a healthy workforce.
So, are Sit-Stand desks a good idea?
Yes, they can be a great tool to help with posture fatigue. Regularly changing your position during the working day is beneficial to your spine and joints. I recommend a desk that can give you the option to sit or stand, and, importantly, it is easy to transition from one to the other.
Tips while you are using a standing desk:
Be aware you will probably have to adjust your screen and keyboard to accommodate the different arm and head position
Stand on both feet equally
Do not lean on the desk
Walk away from the desk from time to time. This works really well if you are on a telephone call, rather than online, and you have wireless headphones
Move, move, move. This helps to change the load on the postural muscles frequently to stop them fatiguing.
Lastly, the best advice I can give to office workers is to have a break at lunchtime. Go for a walk for 10-15 minutes to clear your head, rest your eyes and drop your shoulders. You can also get a little vitamin D at the same time.
You might find this downloadable PDF of tips handy too: Ergonomics at Work