Ready to improve your posture? Ergonomics can relieve your aches and pains.
Did you know the items you use every day in your home or workplace can be modified to make you more comfortable? If you’re feeling uncomfortable, ergonomic training can help!
This is known as ergonomics and refers to the ways we improve movement and function in daily life.
At Mountain Land Physical Therapy Partners, our physical therapists can use ergonomics to help resolve pain issues you may face in your daily life, in addition to helping you prevent injuries that account for 34% of workdays lost.
Ergonomics typically includes tools and body mechanics strategies that focus on maximizing efficiency and safety, as well as identifying/changing factors that may lead to injury.
To learn more about ergonomics and how it can benefit you, contact us at one of our physical therapy clinics today.
What is ergonomics in physical therapy?
In physical therapy, ergonomics means fitting work, school, or home tasks to your body. A therapist studies how you sit, stand, and move, then teaches changes that lower strain and prevent injury.
What is the 90/90/90 rule for good posture?
The 90/90/90 rule says your elbows, hips, and knees should each rest at about a 90-degree angle when you sit. Keep your feet flat, your back supported, and your screen at eye level to protect your spine.
What is the 30/30 rule in ergonomics?
Every 30 minutes, get up for at least 30 seconds. Stretch, walk a few steps, or look 30 feet away to relax your eyes and loosen stiff muscles.
How can ergonomics benefit you?
Good ergonomics takes stress off your muscles and joints, so you feel better and work more safely. Companies that teach workers healthy posture and lifting habits can cut injury costs by almost 40%.
Ergonomic changes help prevent problems such as:
- Low-back pain and stiff neck
- Carpal tunnel (costing $2 billion annually) and tendonitis
- Tension headaches and “text neck.”
- Tennis or golfer’s elbow
- Shoulder or rotator-cuff strains, TMJ pain, and trigger finger
Fixing your desk, car, or sports setup now saves money and keeps you active longer.
What to expect from an ergonomics training session
Your first visit starts with a brief exam and a talk about how you sit, lift, drive, and play. We check the height of your chair, screen, and tools, plus the tasks you repeat all day.
Next, your therapist shows easy fixes such as raising a monitor, adding lumbar support, or setting a 30-minute move reminder. You’ll practice safer ways to reach, type, and lift. Braces or other gear may be suggested if they make daily tasks easier.
The goal is simple: place your body in safe, neutral positions so pain goes away and stays away.
What are the basic principles of ergonomics
What are the basic principles of ergonomics?
- Keep joints in a neutral position.
- Work in your power zone with items close and between mid-thigh and shoulder height. Use minimal force; get help or tools for heavy tasks.
- Avoid holding one posture too long; take regular breaks.
- Move and stretch often to keep blood flowing.
Key takeaways
Comprehensive care: Training often includes a mix of workspace adjustments, targeted exercises, and manual therapy.
What is ergonomics? The practice of improving movement and function in daily life by modifying tools and environments.
Personalized assessment: Physical therapists evaluate your specific workspace, posture, and equipment to create custom modifications.
Get started with ergonomics
If your work or personal life is causing you pain, it could be fixed with some simple ergonomics!
In addition to the ergonomic training we provide, you may also be prescribed additional physical therapy services, depending on your individual needs.
Depending on your individual needs, your plan may include:
- Targeted exercises and stretches
- Manual therapy and joint mobilizations
- Ice and heat therapy
- Electrical stimulation or ultrasound
Contact Mountain Land Physical Therapy Partners today to request an appointment and find out how you can live your life comfortably!