Work Place/Station Ergonomics

At Manhattan Sports Therapy we are dedicated not only to restorative and pain-relieving therapies after injury, but also to prevention. As a spine specialist, Dr. Nemirovsky stresses the importance of healthy habits that preserve the natural function of joints, muscles, and other soft tissue.

Often patients integrate these strategies into their active pursuits, but overlook them in other daily functions. Adults spend a great deal of time at work and the way we work, particularly in repetitive tasks, can have a significant impact on our body long term.

What is Ergonomics?

While the term ergonomics encompasses a wide range of workplace safety factors, Dr. Nemirovsky instructs patients on how workstations and work tasks can be improved for optimal prevention of injury or strain to the musculoskeletal system. In patients with existing conditions, various modifications can be made to reduce pain, avoid further injury, and maintain productivity.

What Are the Ergonomic Risk Factors?

Ergonomic issues are present in nearly all jobs, regardless of the level of strenuous activity involved. Jobs requiring any of these functions can cause injury or strain to joints and muscles:

Prolonged exertion of hands, particularly if repetitive and forceful
Office work that requires sitting at a desk all day
Frequent heavy lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling
Awkward postures maintained for long periods of time
Exposure to cold conditions or constant vibration

Tips for Optimizing Workplace Conditions

If you spend long periods of time at a desk, consider this ergonomic checklist to improve your workspace and be kinder to your muscles and joints:

Pay Attention to Posture

Avoid leaning forward over desk; move keyboard and monitor closer

Keep wrists at a neutral angle; wrists supports may help

Place monitor straight in front of you or turn chair to align your head with your monitor to avoid twisting your neck

Adjust Your Chair

Find the right chair height to allow arms and wrists to rest at the keyboard in a neutral position

Allow two inches of space between the back of your knees and the edge of your seat

Adjust backrest for lower back support; add a pillow or foam roll if needed

See Clearly

Be sure monitor is at a comfortable distance to see clearly without straining

Adjust monitor or chair height so first line of text is just below eye level

Adjust lighting and monitor placement to minimize glare

Keep screen clean and set contrast and brightness to your comfort level

Use a document holder close to screen to avoid repetitive neck movement and strain

For patients with more actively demanding job functions, Dr. Nemirovsky will work with you to assess the duties you perform and recommend improvements or modifications that can help you avoid strain and prevent discomfort.