Working From Home

The Importance of a Proper Work Space

Over the last year, everyone was spending more time at home.  Many have been working at home as well.  Our homes have been turned into a combo of offices, schools, and gyms.

At first, we thought this would be temporary.  We’ve adapted somewhat to this temporary new normal, even if the conditions are not ideal.

The future of returning to the office is still uncertain.  Many companies have decided to have some or all of their workforce work remotely for the foreseeable future.

Approximately a quarter of remote workers said they worked from bed at the beginning of the pandemic.  Almost a year later, up to 40% of people said they had worked from bed at some point when they are working from home.

A proper work station matters

However, for American workers, seventy-two percent of workers said they are working from bed.  Nearly one-in-ten people work 24 to 40-plus hours from their beds every week.

Therefore, makeshift working conditions and sitting for long periods are causing new aches and pains.  Working from your bed only increases the likelihood that you will eventually develop discomfort and pain.

According to a BBC report, “working from bed can strain the neck, back, and hips and while you might not feel it today, it can come back to harm you in the months and years after.”

Possible side effects of an improper work space

According to the University of New Hampshire, the following are just some adverse effects of working in a less than ideal situation:

• Headaches
• Blurry vision
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Back pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome

Ergonomics — the study of workplace efficiency — can help avoid discomfort leading to pain, making you more comfortable for the long term.  Productivity and efficiency are increased while keeping your body aligned so that your muscles are balanced and happy.

Repetitive use of a mouse or keyboard and tilting your head up or down when using a computer may cause neck and shoulder pain when your working environment is less than ideal.  Also, ignoring the situation for too long can lead to chronic pain.

Here are some suggestions:

• Avoid staying in one position for more than 30 minutes.
• Move and stretch often.
• Sit in a supportive chair that holds your hips and knees at a 90-degree angle.
• Keep your feet flat on the floor.
• Use a small pillow for lumbar support if the chair does not support your back.
• Adjust the keyboard and mouse so that your arms are at 90 degrees.
• Have the monitor at eye level.

These same tips apply to your children doing their homework.

Don’t wait until discomfort becomes chronic pain.  It is easier to correct bad habits when addressed early on.

Having an ergonomic workspace will help prevent bad habits, chronic pain and improve productivity.

Bottom Line: If working from home is your ‘new normal,’ consider investing in an ergonomic desk and chair.  Also, good lighting will help prevent eye strain.  Finally, use your commuting time to exercise, practice yoga, and meditate.

If you’re interested in trying private virtual yoga or meditation or would like to know more information, send me a message or call (973) 476-8661

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