Why Is Ergonomics Important?

At Herald Square Chiropractic and Sport, our concern is how ergonomics impacts your body.  In particular, we consider how it affects your musculoskeletal system in terms of motion and pain. 

This month, let’s take a look at why ergonomics is essential for living a healthy and pain-free life. It’s the knowledge that can help you optimize your daily life while keeping you safe and comfortable. 

The goals of ergonomics

The United States Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) calls ergonomics the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace. It’s a process for protecting workers with safe and healthful workplaces with minimal risk of unnecessary injury. 

How workplace injuries occur

Workplace injuries are sometimes unavoidable. However, most of them can be prevented. While the most visible injuries are often tied to accidents, simply performing your job can take a toll on your body. 

Accidents often lead to injuries like cuts, concussions, and fractures, but musculoskeletal injuries often originate from performing daily tasks. The effects can be immediate, or they may emerge slowly over time. 

The same holds true for tasks you perform at home, even though you might not think of the jobs you do around the house as a workplace setting. 

Implementing ergonomics at home and work

While you’re on the job, there’s a legislated mandate for employers to provide a safe environment, including ergonomics consideration. You may have a partnership with your employer’s health and safety team, and they may be able to assist you with making ergonomic changes to reduce your risk of injury. 

Some examples of activities that lead to musculoskeletal disorders through poor ergonomics include: 

• Computer workstations: causing headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, eye fatigue
• Client handling: typically a healthcare activity, these injuries frequently stem from moving clients and long-term wear-and-tear associated with these responsibilities
• Manual material handling: lifting, moving, and carrying objects
• Postural challenges: long periods of sitting or standing can lead to overall posture imbalance

At home, things like kitchen counter height, task lighting, or laptop use could all lead to injuries due to compromised ergonomics. 

The benefits of improved ergonomics

As well as being free of injury and pain, addressing ergonomics offers a range of benefits that can often be obtained through simple awareness and observation. Consider these benefits of improved ergonomics: 

• Improved productivity by performing tasks more efficiently
• Less discomfort and pain
• Tasks are more enjoyable
• Less lost time at work or around the house

Visit us at Herald Square Chiropractic and Sport in Midtown Manhattan to learn more about how ergonomics may be contributing to your aches and pains while receiving targeted treatment for relief. 

Call or click to book your appointment today.