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In the modern age, the majority of our workforce spends their days at a desk. Indeed, the number of sedentary jobs has increased by 83% since 1950, and only 20% of our workforce perform physically active jobs. With so many Americans sitting for such long periods of time, it’s important that their space is ergonomically friendly in order to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders, back injuries, and more.  

Here just some of the many health risks that a poor ergonomic workspace can have on our bodies:

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) 

Perhaps the most debilitating and most common result of a poor ergonomic workspace are musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). These include conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and bursitis. All of these conditions can be the result of poor posture and repetitive movements (such as typing) over a long period of time. 

Back injuries 

Sitting is the new smoking, as they say, and prolonged inactivity can wreak havoc on our backs. Sitting for long periods of time and/or incorrect posture can cause cumulative trauma which ultimately lead to back issues later on. While back pain can sometimes be temporary, according to the CDC, anywhere from 5-10% of Americans say that their back pain becomes chronic.  

Headaches and migraines 

Poor ergonomics can also lead to seemingly unrelated symptoms such as headaches and migraines. This is because poor posture can lead to a greater strain on our backs, necks, and shoulders. The pain in these areas can then travel up to your head, triggering headaches and/or migraines in certain individuals. Headaches and migraines can also be triggered by eye strain as a result of staring at a screen for too long of a time. 

So, what can you do to prevent your workforce from suffering from these conditions? The answer is making your workspace more ergonomically friendly. At Accredited Rehabilitation Consultants, we can evaluate your current workspace, find ways to make it more ergonomic, and then provide and install the necessary equipment to do so. To learn more, contact us today! 

  Filed under: Ergonomic Injury
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