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3 Mistakes You May be Making on Your Work Desk

22 Aug 2023 · 1 min

Watch on YouTube

0:59

In this short instructional video, two presenters identify common ergonomic errors that cause neck, shoulder, and arm discomfort while working at a desk. The first mistake highlighted is slouching caused by a monitor positioned too low, which strains the cervical spine. The solution offered is to raise the screen to eye level using a laptop stand, books, a box, or a yoga block. The second mistake is allowing the forearms and elbows to hang unsupported, forcing muscles to work harder. The recommended correction is to rest elbows and forearms on the desk so they remain parallel to the ground. The tone is conversational and supportive, aiming to help viewers improve posture and reduce pain.

Sitting on the desk all day long and getting pain in your neck and shoulders? Well, here are 3 mistakes you may be making.
Mistake number 1, slouching because your screen is placed too low. Thus, we end up hunching all day long. This puts strain on our neck and could even cause cervical pain. To correct this, elevate your monitor such that the screen is at your eye level. You can get a laptop stand or even just lift your monitor using some books, a box, or even a yoga block.
Mistake 2, Letting your forearms and elbows hang loose in the air, not realizing that our muscles have to work extra hard to keep our arms elevated. To correct this, whenever you work, let your elbows and arms rest comfortably on your desk. Your forearms should basically be parallel to the ground, not hanging loose.
Mistake number 3: Sitting for extended periods of time without moving. After completing a task or 2, take a quick break. Stand up, walk around, do some neck rotations and a few quick stretches. This will help you get your blood flowing and give you lots of energy.