Work from Home is Here to Stay: Expert Advice on Improvements
No matter where you work from, it’s important to have good posture and a healthy workstation. Here are five work environment tips from chiropractor Dr. Chad Henriksen.
As grocery shopping and dining out face a “new normal,” so does the workplace. Even as states slowly reopen, one thing will remain—the majority of the workforce that has learned to do their job from home will remain there for some time. Most people have cobbled together satisfactory work conditions, but it’s likely taking a toll on their bodies. Many are suffering from headaches, eye strain, tight shoulders and necks.
Luckily, there's something you can do about it.
Dr. Chad Henriksen, at Northwestern Health Sciences University, a chiropractor and an expert in body function, has the following tips to shake off some of those WFH aches and pains.
Efficient work environments entail:
- Take Micro-Breaks: Stand up, stretch for 10-15 seconds every 30 minutes. Staying active throughout the workday will not only help the body but refresh your focus as well.
- Lean Back: Sit in a chair that will allow you to keep your spine aligned and not cause strain on your neck and shoulders. Imagine a vertical line running through your ear, shoulder, and hip. Lean back into your chair and take advantage of the backrest. Add a pillow for extra comfort and support.
- 90-Degree Rule: While sitting at a table and in a chair, ensure your arms and legs are parallel to the floor, as close to a 90-degree angle at the elbow and the knee as possible.
- Eyes Straight Ahead: Keep your eyes in line with the screen. If you are slightly looking down or gazing up at your screen, use some books or a box to raise your screen to the proper height.
- Use the Ironing Board: Missing your stand-up desk? An ironing board can be used as a standing workstation if you want to alternate between standing and sitting. Bonus tip: try taking your meeting standing up, or even some that do not require video, on a walk. It is an easy way to get in some movement.