Burleigh Waters Osteopathy

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(#5) Optimal Sitting/Standing Desk Posture

Sitting Desk Posture

Poor posture can lead to a host of problems, including back and neck pain, headaches, and even breathing difficulties. Whether you're sitting or standing at a desk, it's important to maintain good posture to reduce the risk of these issues.

  • Keep your feet flat on the ground: Make sure your feet are resting flat on the ground, with your knees at a 90-degree angle. This will help distribute your weight evenly and prevent back pain.

  • Sit with your back straight: Sit up straight with your back against the chair. This will help reduce the strain on your neck and back muscles.

  • Keep your shoulders relaxed: Try not to hunch your shoulders up towards your ears. Instead, relax them downwards to reduce tension in your upper back and neck.

  • Adjust the height of your chair: Ensure that the height of your chair allows you to sit with your feet flat on the ground and your knees at a 90-degree angle.

  • Use a footrest if necessary: If your feet don't reach the ground comfortably, consider using a footrest to help distribute your weight evenly.

  • Keep your elbows close to your body: Try to keep your elbows close to your body, at a 90-degree angle, to avoid straining your shoulders and neck.

  • Use a chair with good lumbar support: Look for a chair that provides good lumbar support to help maintain the natural curve of your spine.

  • Position your monitor at eye level: Adjust the height of your monitor so that the top of the screen is at eye level. This will help prevent eye strain and neck pain.

Standing Desk Posture

  • Keep your feet shoulder-width apart: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart to help distribute your weight evenly.

  • Keep your knees slightly bent: Avoid locking your knees when standing. Keep them slightly bent to help maintain good posture and reduce strain on your lower back.

  • Engage your core: Keep your core engaged by pulling your belly button towards your spine. This will help stabilize your body and reduce strain on your lower back.

  • Keep your shoulders relaxed: Try not to hunch your shoulders up towards your ears. Instead, relax them downwards to reduce tension in your upper back and neck.

  • Position your monitor at eye level: Adjust the height of your monitor so that the top of the screen is at eye level. This will help prevent eye strain and neck pain.

  • Use a footrest if necessary: If you find it uncomfortable to stand for prolonged periods, consider using a footrest to help shift your weight and reduce pressure on your feet and legs.

  • Alternate your standing position: Try not to stand in one position for too long. Shift your weight from one foot to the other or take a few steps to help improve circulation and reduce fatigue.

  • Wear supportive shoes: Choose footwear that provides good arch support and cushioning to help reduce strain on your feet, legs, and lower back.