One of our consultants recently conducted an assessment on an individual who is unable to sit for long periods of time due to a medical condition. While prolonged sitting causes discomfort particularly for this individual, it isn’t recommended for many of the people we see working 9 to 5 at their desks.
There are a few options. We encourage getting up from the office chair to give your hips, back and legs a break from sitting. Think about opportunities that you might have to stretch your legs. Stretch. Get up to get a cup of coffee. If you need to speak to a co-worker, take a jaunt down to their office instead of emailing or calling (nothing beats face to face communication anyway).
In the case of this particular individual, a fully adjustable sit to stand desk was recommended to allow a change in posture. If you’re considering a sit to stand desk, keep the following in mind:
- Make sure the desk can adjust to a height that ensures the keyboard and mouse are at elbow level when standing.
- Allow for sufficient space to position frequently used items (30″ by 60″ minimum).
- If feasible, it is recommended that the mechanism of adjustment is motorized. Pressing a button to raise and lower the surface is preferred over a crank, which requires awkward postures when adjusting the desk.
- Wear appropriate and supportive footwear and use anti-fatigue matting for added comfort when standing.
- An adjustable footstool will help support a neutral back position by slightly raising one leg as well as providing the opportunity to alternate standing postures.
- Take a break from standing by lowering the surface and sit in a chair.
Again, we all could benefit from a sit-stand desk but cashing in on opportunities to get up and move around helps. If you would like more information on where to find sit to stand desks or have one of our consultants come out to your site to conduct a brown bag session on office ergonomics, contact us at 780-436-0024.