Working at an office with a set of responsibilities is where many people find themselves today. Computers have literally taken over the world, so if someone enjoys working with computers, he is going to spend time working behind a desk most of the time. The number of office jobs has increased through the years as computer technology has expanded beyond our expectations.

Modern Office Desks

Along with the increased office and computer work has come new problems that must be faced. Within the workplace, however, there have been health issues that employers were not prepared to deal with. Some of these problems include: eye strain, repetitive strain injury, carpal tunnel syndrome, musculoskeletal disorders and other problems. Fortunately there are some things that can be done to help avoid these conditions.

Modern Office Desks

1) Sit up in your chair and rest against the back, without slouching. This is important because it will give your back, shoulders and neck the support they need. You should be sitting "in" your chair, not "on" your chair. A chair with a good fit will be comfortable and adjustable. Your feet should reach the floor and your arms should be at a 90-degree angle when working on the computer. You will put excess strain on your back and shoulders by stretching to work on your computer keyboard.

2) Check the position of your monitor. It should be directly in front of your eyes, as this means your head will be in the right position and not straining your back or neck muscles. You put too much pressure on your shoulders and neck when you are looking up or down to see your computer screen. You can find the position that best aligns your body and is most comfortable by using an adjustable ergonomic chair.

3) What type of lighting are you using? Natural light has been proven to increase productivity and also reduce fatigue and stress. Open the blinds or curtains in the office to let the sunlight in. Full spectrum lighting not only is more attractive, but it also helps reduce cortisol levels (stress hormones), eases eye strain, improves moods, and reduces glare.

4) Give yourself small stretching and exercise breaks. You can do some quick wrist and hand exercises every 20-30 minutes, as well as stretching and taking a walk. You can even find websites the Internet that will remind you to take breaks and give you simple exercises to do at the office. You will feel more refreshed at the end of the day because the tension in your muscles and joints has been eliminated. Change your environment by taking a walk outside for 10-15 minutes. You will find renewed energy by getting the blood and lymphatic system flowing again.

5) Rather than pounding the keys, strike them with a gentle touch. If an office worker types 60 words per minute for 50 minutes every hour for six hours every day, that is 90,000 repeated motions! Should we be surprised that people who work at their computers all day have sore hands, wrists and arms? If one can reduce the beating on the keys and just dance across the keyboard, she will find that not only can she type faster, but the stress is being taken from the hands, wrists and arms.

6) Don't hurt your work performance by doing things at home or play that will stress your muscles. Oftentimes in the zeal for life and fun, people over-do things at home by using weak muscles. Unless you are in good physical condition, you should not be participating in sport, gardening and dancing over the weekends. When back at the office, they begin to feel that pain and realize they did not make the best choices. At times when others are sick with colds and influenza, you can take care of yourself by taking vitamins, getting plenty of rest and drinking fluids.

7) Get organized. Make your environment user-friendly for yourself and the type of work that you do. You should feel both comfortable and supported there. A clean and organized office will help you function better, while a cluttered office will create confusion and stress. Each day, before you leave, put everything away so you can start fresh the next morning.

8) Take care of yourself. Too many people have sore muscles, headaches, and even the flu, and yet they continue to go to work, day in and day out, without looking for help. You need to educate yourself to find out why your muscles may be aching. Also, a visit to the doctor or chiropractor can tell much about your overall physical condition and the alignment of your spine. Don't try to be a hero if you are sick with an infection and contagious. Stay home with your germs so you can get better and not infect everyone else.

You can create an office that is healthy and comfortable with a little extra time and effort. Your health is ultimately up to you. Taking care of yourself both at the office and at home will help you live a happier, more productive life.

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Modern Office Desks