Most people know the importance of a good workstation setup when preventing injuries in the office, but many don’t realize the same principles apply when working from home. In fact, according to an ergonomics consultant, setting up your home office incorrectly can lead to just as many problems as not having one at all.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the most common ergonomic mistakes people make when setting up their home office and offer tips on avoiding them.
Incorrect Monitor Position
When setting up a home office, it is important to consider your posture and position concerning your computer screen, keyboard, and mouse. Many people make the mistake of putting their computer monitor on a low table or desk, forcing them to hunch over to see the screen. This can lead to neck and back pain. The best way to avoid this is to put your computer monitor at eye level, either by using a monitor stand or by placing your laptop on a stack of books.
Poor Keyboard and Mouse Placement
Another common posture mistake is to keep your keyboard and mouse too close to your body. This can cause you to slouch or hunch over, leading to shoulder and neck pain. Instead, keep your keyboard and mouse at arm’s length so you can sit straight in your chair and relax your shoulders.
If your mouse keeps slipping off the edge of your desk, try using a mousepad with a wrist rest. This will help keep your wrist in a neutral position and prevent pain.
Sitting in an Uncomfortable Position
Many people think as long as they’re sitting up straight, they’re doing enough to avoid ergonomic problems. However, sitting in an uncomfortable position for long periods can still lead to pain. Make sure you’re sitting with your hips and knees at a 90-degree angle, and your feet are flat on the floor. If you can’t reach the ground, try using a footrest.
You should also avoid sitting in the same position for too long. Instead, get up and move around at least once an hour to keep your muscles from getting stiff.
Using the Wrong Chair
One of the most important furniture in your home office is your chair. Many people use a dining room or other kitchen chair when setting up their office, but this is a mistake. These chairs are not designed for sitting for long periods and can lead to back pain. Instead, invest in a good quality office chair which is adjustable and has lumbar support.
For more tips from an ergonomic consulting and assessment service company, book an assessment from Ergobility today. We look forward to helping you work more comfortably.
