A client reached out to Ergobility to seek help for their significant other. They wanted to understand the process of "gifting ergonomics." Turns out her partner was a computer programmer spending countless hours in front of a computer and had developed symptoms of a cumulative related disorder in their arms and dominant shoulder. The issue became present when their partner had complained of a tingling sensation in their fingers. At first, he didn't think to much about it, but after time it only seemly worsened. The issues seemed to be stemmed somewhere in their arms or shoulders but it was difficult for him to understand what to do. He eventually went to see his primary care physician and then got massages. The physician suggested a physical therapist that then suggested that it could be related to the way he was using his computer at home. That's when he mentioned it to his partner. As the holidays started rolling around, thoughts of a meaningful gift went running through her head. That's when she thought to call an ergonomic professional to find out options for her partner. We see that many people have been working from home incorrectly. Aside from the big "no-nos" such as hunching over the laptop, working at inappropriate heights, not using an office task chair, etc. there are other overuse factors. For example, such as in this case, a computer programmer was very efficient at typing. This individual hits almost twice the number of keystrokes as an average individual so there's per say twice the load on this person's fingers, hands, and wrists. If their typing body mechanics is not ideal, then posture and force have that much more effect on their body. So an ergonomics professional not only just ensures that a person working from home as the key essentials to a properly fitting workstation but also observes their mechanics to see what products and training can assist that individual stay free from an overuse related musculoskeletal injury. In the end, the Ergobility ergonomics consultant was able to customize a space in the individual's home for a proper height adjustable desk and office task chair that offered sufficient lumbar support and allowed their feet to be properly supported by the floor. After observation of technique and habits, the ergonomist was able to ascertain what the best keyboard and mouse would be to significantly reduce awkward postures and reduce the forces on the structures of the carpal and digits. So if you have a loved one finding that working on the couch is their most comfortable working location, call an ergonomic professional with Ergobility today. You can also have them start off with the online assessment tool.