PHYSI CAL T H ERA PY
Workstation ergonomics for home offices
Derek Fogle, physical therapy manager, Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics. BY COLLEEN MCGRATH/HERALD-MAIL By Derek Fogle, DPT Physical Therapy Manager Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics
T
he COVID-19 pandemic has brought many changes into our lives. One of these major changes is the increasing number of companies utilizing telework as the primary option for full-time employees. Although the telework option allows for social distancing and reduces the risk of exposure to COVID-19, there are some drawbacks of working out of a home office. In general, working in an office environment allows you access to well-designed office furniture and equipment that promotes good posture and ergonomics. In most cases, if you have an issue with your workstation, your employer has access to ergonomics experts who can assess your needs and provide modifications, if necessary. When working from home, most people use whatever home office setup they have. This varies from a complete home office, to sitting at the kitchen table on a hard kitchen chair, to sitting in bed using a laptop. Although most people will adapt and make it work, over time these less-than-ideal workstation setups can cause an array of injuries.
Home office issues The most common complaint with most home office setups is improper height for the computer screen, desk and Continued on page 19
Derek Fogle, physical therapy manager, Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics, demonstrates a piriformis stretch. This stretch is used to reduce low back and posterior hip pain associated with slumped posture when sitting. BY COLLEEN MCGRATH/ HERALD-MAIL
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