3 Tips to Improve Your Desk Setup

As a physical therapist, I have had the opportunity to work with and support office workers in learning how to set up and use their workstations ergonomically for optimal support and comfort. I’d like to share some of the pearls I have learned.

We have all heard the saying, “Everything in moderation.” One may choose to start eating healthier and choose one less dessert at a party or cut back on the size of that favorite mocha latte. Someone with a love of shoes may decide to create a shoe budget to keep spending in moderation. In the same way, moderation also applies to physical activity and body posture. Runners prepare for a race by following a training plan that allows the body to have periods of rest to prevent repetitive injury. With stationary activities, it is just as important to have periods of movement. Designed to move, our bodies feel the impact of lack of movement. Sitting for prolonged periods can lead to reduced blood flow, stiffness, discomfort and fatigue (both mental and physical).

These simple tips will help you moderate stationary activity in order to work healthier and more efficiently in an office setting.

1. Sit Smart:

Seating Choice – office chairs with adjustable height, seat depth and lumbar support offer an individual fit to support the spine and legs.

Showing how to assess seat height, seat depth and lumbar support.

Key Seating Adjustments

Seat Height – choose a height that places the thighs parallel to the floor or slightly higher. This creates a stable base of support. If adjusted too low the hips can become stiff and if adjusted too high one may slide forward and slump.

Seat Depth – adjust to fully support the thighs, but still leave the width of a couple fingers between the front edge of the seat and the back of the knee. This is very important to distribute body weight evenly and not impede blood flow at the back of the knee.

Lumbar Support – adjust to support the curve of the lower back. This not only supports the back but also promotes healthier upper body and leg postures. In some cases, even with an adjustable lumbar support, individuals find they may need more. Rolling up a towel or purchasing an additional lumbar cushion is a simple fix.

2. Be Aligned (With Your Desk/Workstation)

Showing proper alignment with your desk

Desk Height – if able to adjust desk height, adjust so that while typing the forearms are parallel to the floor and wrists are at the same level or slightly lower than the elbows. This will keep the wrist in neutral postures and help reduce the risk for development of carpal tunnel. If the desk height cannot be adjusted, hopefully it is just a little high. To solve this problem, add a footrest and raise the chair. If too low, look for a different desk.

Keep It Close – to prevent leaning forward and slumping as well as unnecessary reaching, adjust the keyboard and mouse to be close to the edge of the desk; adjust monitor(s) to be centered in front of you, about an arm’s length away, and at a comfortable height to view the screen without needing to tip the head up or down.

3. Sit (or Stand) in Moderation

Schedule Movement Breaks – whether it is a sticky note or a phone or calendar reminder, plan to move every hour. A lap around the office, a water refill break, a longer walk during lunch break, a trip to the printer, and even 1-2 minutes of standing and shifting weight or marching in place help break the stationary cycle. If you have an adjustable desk and can stand while you work, remember it is just as important to move and avoid locking in a stationary standing posture for a long time.

Eye Breaks—Remember that our eyes need a break as well. Periodically look away from the computer screen and focus on something else in a different direction. This can reduce eyestrain and related tension headaches.

If our bodies are supported in healthy postures and given opportunities to move, we will reap the benefits of working comfortably with more energy and focus. If you haven’t already, take the time to adjust your office workstation and plan movement every day properly.

Remember to sit smart, be aligned, and of course, everything in moderation!

About the Author: Dr. Renee Anderson, PT, DPT, is heavily involved with our Industrial Medicine program and helps at our clinics in Shawano and Green Bay.