Computer Ergonomics: Work Pain Free

4. Sitting without properly positioned low back support.

RISKS

This results in a reversal of the normal low back curve and a forward head posture. The resultant stretching of muscle and ligaments and having to hold up the weight of the forward head results in chronic tension, fatigue, neck and back ache, headaches at the base of the skull, and a tendency to injury from otherwise innocent activities.

SOLUTION

To properly sit and position a low back support, move buttocks to the back of the seat and arch your back. The support is placed at the deepest point of this curve. Keep in mind that as you get more or less stiff, from injury, stress, or exercise, the location of the curve may change. Apply this at your workstation, in your car, when watching TV, eating, etc. The proper size of the low back support is the comfortable size for you.

A] Chair with adjustable size and height Lumbar support.
B] Add Lumbar pillow to your seat.
C] Roll a towel and secure with rubber bands and use this as a lumbar support.
D] Roll a sweater or sweatshirt at a restaurant, movie, or meeting.
E] If the operator leans forward when working, sit on a foam wedge or use forward tilt option on the chair. This tilts the pelvis forward, maintaining the low back curve, and positions the head properly above the body.

==>> This is a part of a 6 part series of short articles on the causes and solutions to headaches related to working on computers. View them all under computer headaches.

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