Ergonomics

I'm convinced my home office is killing my back and shoulders. I don't know much about ergonomics. So I was hoping I could get some tips from other's here. I figured most of you who check this forum must sit at your desk a fair bit.


I think I'll go out today and look for an expsensive chair to replace my cheap chair.

lol, I almost started a similar thread yesterday. I have had a lower back sprain since last year. For the most part it has healed, but every once in a while I lift something while turning or twisting, and it sends my back into painful spasms for a few days. That happened to me last week, and nothing is more painful for me than sitting in my crappy office chair when my back is out.


I have purchased an Obus Forme insert for my chair, which helps. I also stretch daily now, diligently for my lower back. I bought good running shoes as I run regularly. I used to buy whatever was on sale, but now I have good ones.


I keep my monitor at the height of my collar bone, to avoid looking up and hurting my neck.


definitely replace your cheap chair, or get an Obus Forme. they are awesome and not stupidly expensive. don't get the fancy ultra one, the regular Obus Forme chair pad is fine. good luck!

(Edited on 2010-05-11 14:05:54 by stacey_newman)

I feel your pain

My best advice? Make correcting your posture a part of your workflow.
I use a work station that I can adjust to sit or stand at and I adjust my monitor when I change position as well.

Stacey is so right the monitor height is key as she mentioned above as well as your hand position over your keyboard.
Don't lean in or sit on the edge of your chair...Also no matter how good your chair is don't sit in it for hours and hours editing without getting up and stretching or moving around.

Do yourself a favor and get rid of that bad chair for sure. But remember no matter how good the chair is it will not help if your posture is bad.
Little adjustments make a huge difference.

Today I bought a new chair from ikea. It sort of looks a little like those expensive $600 chairs but not. It was only $74. I've been sitting on it for about 20mins now, it 'seems to feel better.


I also saw this product on a infomerical, so I decided to order one. http://backjoy.com/ it looks quite impressive on tv. But one never knows with products that come from informericals. If I end up liking it, I'll let you guys know.

I don't know how much confidence I would place in A: Ikea products or B: infomercial back cures....lol, but I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.

I haven't worked at the desk in awhile. I have the monitor and keyboard on 10' cables so I can move them around to different workspaces in the room. Usually I work from a reclining comfy chair or the sofa.

Day 2 of Ikea chair, so far so good. I've noticed I am sitting more upright more often, although sometimes I still catch myself leaning into the table. I appreciate you guys for taking the time to share your kind advice for me

Yep. No leaning. Good news is your aware of it. Just keep correcting yourself and that should even make a difference. It really did for me. Let us know how that back joy thing works out...I'm curious

I agree with all, keep straight whenever possible, and stretch at least every couple of hours. I have a bad habit of tucking my feet underneath me, I started having knee pain which went away as soon as I stopped.


I bought a very nice leather chair at Costco for on $160 Canadian, worth every penny as the same chairs go for 3 for 4 hundred everywhere else. I can fall asleep in that chair it is so comfortable!

falling asleep while working is counterproductive you know, lol

Ha yes I only do the occasional freelance job at home right now, but when I am listening to music and just reading I can nod off! :P