Using Ergonomics to Prevent Cervical Spine Strain

 

Ergonomics studies how people move and function in their daily lives at work to their bodies. Ergonomics is important because it has led to advances in office equipment that make the daily work for each person less strenuous on their body. These include footrests, telephone headsets, adjustable video monitors, and chairs for improved support and minimized repetitive strain. To learn more about ergonomics and how to treat your cervical pain, make an appointment for Physical Therapy in Manhattan with Manhattan Sports Medicine. 

Ergonomics at WorkPhysical Therapy in Manhattan

Practicing ergonomics in conjunction with regular physical therapy in Manhattan is a great way to prevent cervical spine strain from office work. Sitting with a well-supported neck is critical to ensure a healthy spine and limit the chance of strain. Here are some tips to know if you are properly aligned with your computer:

  • Your eyes are pointing directly at the top third of your computer screen
  • Your forearms are parallel with the floor when they are at the keyboard
  • Your feet are flat on the floor while your thighs are parallel when sitting in your chair.

If any of these alignments are off, make sure you adjust your desk chair following guidelines from physical therapy in Manhattan. All of these points are essential in keeping good posture and limiting strain on your cervical spine. Specifically,

  • Chair position: the shape of your office chair determines the pressure distribution across your spine, which, if incorrectly, and lead to over-compensation by other parts of the body, leading to spine strain.
  • Monitor position: If the monitor is too far away from your body, you will over-extend your neck to see better. This can also lead to slouching, requiring physical therapy in Manhattan. 
  • Arm and Keyboard position: When your arms are not properly supported through either the table or armrests while they are typing, the neck ends up doing more work, leading to fatigue and strain.

Contact Us For Physical Therapy in Manhattan

If you are experiencing cervical strain from your office job, you may see a physical therapist in Manhattan for help in coming up with a treatment plan. To learn more about ergonomics and how to treat your cervical pain, make an appointment with Manhattan Sports Medicine.