By Amy Gibbs, B.S.

What is ergonomics?

In simple terms, ergonomics means improving the fit between your body and an activity. The activities can be related to work, recreation or activities of daily living.

Why should you care?

The activities you do today may, over time, lead to a cumulative trauma disorder (CTD). CTDs account for about 50% of all occupational illnesses in the United States.

Areas commonly affected:

• Fingers
• Elbows
• Neck
• Wrists
• Shoulders
• Back

Characteristics of CTDs:

• General feeling of discomfort (often recurring)
• Swelling or muscle fatigue that does not go away with rest
• Tingling or numbness in the affected area
• Symptoms becoming more constant over time

Strategies to prevent CTDs:

• Always sit and stand with good posture. Align your ears, shoulders and hips; keep your head upright and relaxed.
• Keep items you are working with or lifting within 14 – 18 inches of your body.
• Take frequent breaks (ideally once an hour). Get up, move around and stretch!
• Keep yourself healthy; eat right and exercise.
• If you use a computer at work or home: Position the monitor so it is directly in front and about an arm‘s length away from your body.
• Adjust the height of the monitor so the top is near eye level.
• Raise or lower the keyboard and mouse so your wrists are straight when your fingers are on the middle row.
• Adjust your chair height (or use a footrest) so that your feet can be flat with knees bent at a 90° angle.

By applying these strategies in everyday life, you can prevent the discomfort that is typically associated with poor ergonomic practices, as well as more serious debilitating conditions.

For additional information please contact NIFS at 317.274.3432.