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Is Your Home Workstation Working for You?

February 01, 2021

Susan Fuerst, MS,
Physical Therapist

For many people, working from home is part of the new routine of daily life, which makes an ergonomic workstation essential for every home office.

“Setting up your workstation properly can help prevent low-, mid- or upper-back pain, neck pain and headaches caused by muscle strain and fatigue,” says Susan Fuerst, MS, PT, physical therapist at Huron Regional Medical Center. “Using good posture and an ergonomically correct workstation will help you feel better while working, which enhances concentration and productivity.”

Use these tips to create a workstation that works with rather than against you:

Pay attention to positioning. Place your monitor, keyboard, mouse and phone within easy reach. Be sure the monitor is centered in front of you, with the top at eye height.
Perfect your posture. Sit up straight in a cushioned chair with low-back support. Keep your feet on the floor, knees and elbows bent, shoulders over hips, and head over shoulders.
Stand up for yourself. If working at a standing desk, make sure it’s level with your elbows, use an anti-fatigue mat to cushion your feet and shift your weight periodically. Alternate standing and sitting throughout the day, whether you use a standing desk or not.
Stretch for success. Take time to stretch each hour. Useful stretches include rolling your shoulders backward and forward, bending and straightening your wrists, and standing and raising your arms overhead before bending side to side.

Watch a series of videos of proper work set up on HRMC's YouTube channel.

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