Sitting Posture And Computer Posture

No, sitting isn’t good for you. You’d be better off sitting as little as possible, but between computer use, driving, eating, and relaxing — it’s going to happen. Here are some tips to help you sit as healthy as possible. Or to think about it another way, how to sit and not mess up your adjustments. Think neutral posture Do you sit in front of two computer screens? Are they directly in front of you? Most people know to do that, however some people have their desktop monitor in front of them and a laptop set off to one side. This is problematic by itself, but do that for hours on end and you will develop a problem. Not “might” but “will.” Simple fixes; make sure your monitor is high enough. If you do use multiple screens, change what’s on the screens from time to time. If you’re always on your e-mail and that’s on the right screen, move your e-mail to the left screen for awhile. If you always have your extra laptop on the right side of your desk, move it to the left from time to time. Switch out the information on your screens every month – try to stay balanced If you’re short, you’ll want to make sure that your desk is low enough for you. I just saw a patient that fixed a lot of her issues by lowering her desk. She was holding her mouse hand up so high to do her work that she was constantly having right shoulder and upper back pain. Your feet need to touch the floor, if possible. If that’s not possible, buy a little step stool and stick it under your desk. You feel should be able to rest flat and comfortably on the foot rest. Should you buy an expensive chair? The chair doesn’t have to be overly expensive, but it does need to be adjustable. The more adjustable the better so you can create the fit that’s right for you. I would make sure you’ve got good lumbar support and that you can get in a good position right up on your desk. Arms that won’t move tend to keep you further away than you would want. Don’t waste your good chair by how you sit. I’ve seen patients go through an ergonomic assessment, get all new stuff, and then move everything back after the first month. Another common issue is that they will cross one leg under themselves, completely negating any ergonomic improvements. Are you more comfortable being out of alignment? If you’re more comfortable being out of alignment (or in a crazy position) instead of sitting up straight, there’s a good chance that you’re out of alignment. Having good posture and sitting in a good position should feel good. If you’re having trouble holding a good posture position, see a chiropractor and start working on your posture exercises. You’ll need to build up strength and your ability to hold good posture. There’s no benefit to sitting in bad posture all day, so don’t do it.