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Ask a doctor on the topic of Occupational medicine

How can I improve my workplace ergonomics?

Dear Doctor,

My name is Selma Fuchs and I have been working in an office job for some time now, where I spend the majority of my day at the computer. Lately, I have been experiencing increased problems with back pain, tension in my neck and shoulders, as well as headaches. I feel like these issues could be related to my workspace.

Currently, I am sitting at a desk that is not height-adjustable, and the screen and keyboard are not optimally positioned. I spend long hours in the same position and feel like my posture is suffering as a result. I take regular short breaks to stretch and move around, but the discomfort just doesn't seem to improve.

I am concerned about my health and wondering how I can improve my workspace ergonomics to alleviate the discomfort and prevent future problems. Are there specific tools or measures I can take to better adapt my workspace to my needs? Should I ask my employer for support, or is there something I can do on my own to improve my situation?

I would like to know what specific steps I can take to optimize my workspace ergonomics and reduce my discomfort. Thank you in advance for your help and advice.

Sincerely,
Selma Fuchs

Selma Stamm

Dear Selma Fuchs,

Thank you for your detailed description of your situation. I am sorry to hear that you are suffering from back pain, neck and shoulder tension, and headaches, which may be related to your office job and workplace ergonomics. It is important that you take these symptoms seriously and take measures to protect and improve your health.

It sounds like your current symptoms may be due to suboptimal workplace ergonomics. The fact that your desk is not adjustable in height and your screen and keyboard are not optimally positioned can lead to poor posture and muscular imbalances, which in turn can cause discomfort.

To improve your workplace ergonomics and reduce your symptoms, there are several measures you can take. First of all, I recommend asking your employer for support. Your employer is obligated to provide a healthy work environment and may be able to help you make your workspace more ergonomic. This could include purchasing a height-adjustable desk, an ergonomic office chair, or a monitor arm for optimal screen positioning.

It is also important to take regular breaks to stretch and move. Try to take a short break every 30-60 minutes to relieve your body and prevent tension. Use these breaks to perform some simple stretching exercises for your back, neck, and shoulders.

Additionally, ergonomic aids such as an ergonomic mouse and keyboard, a footrest, or an ergonomic neck pillow can help improve your workplace ergonomics and alleviate your symptoms.

It is important that you take action and take measures to improve your situation. Be open with your employer about your symptoms and needs, and ask for support. Pay attention to your posture, take regular breaks, and perform targeted stretching exercises.

I hope these tips help you optimize your workplace ergonomics and reduce your symptoms. If the symptoms persist or worsen, I recommend seeing a doctor to investigate further causes and receive individualized treatment.

I wish you all the best and a speedy recovery from your symptoms.

Sincerely,
Selma Stamm

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Selma Stamm