Postured Ergonomics

In the contemporary world, where many of us spend hours each day sitting at desks or in front of computers, the phrase "Movement is Medicine" has never been more relevant. This article explores the importance of incorporating frequent and specific movement into our daily routines, particularly while at the office, and provides a comprehensive guide on how to get started.

The Importance of Movement in the Workplace

Workplace health and wellness are crucial for both employees and employers. A healthy workforce is not only more productive but also experiences fewer injuries, less absenteeism, and improved morale. One of the key components of workplace health is ergonomics - the study of how to design workplaces, products, and systems so that they fit the people who use them.

Ergonomics is not just about having the right chair or keyboard. It's about understanding how our bodies work and move, and then designing our work environment to accommodate that. This is where the concept of "Movement is Medicine" comes into play.

The idea behind "Movement is Medicine" is straightforward yet powerful: regular, specific movement can help prevent and alleviate many common health issues associated with office work. These issues include musculoskeletal problems such as back and neck pain, as well as mental health concerns like stress and anxiety.

Movement is a natural antidote to these problems. Regular movement increases blood flow, reduces muscle tension, and can even boost mood and concentration. But it's not just about moving more - it's about moving better. This is where ergonomics comes in.

Ergonomics and Movement: A Perfect Pair

Ergonomics and movement go hand in hand. An ergonomic approach to workplace health involves designing work environments that encourage healthy movement patterns. This could involve everything from the layout of the office to the design of furniture and equipment.

For example, an ergonomic office might include standing desks to encourage workers to change their posture throughout the day, or layout that encourages walking to different parts of the office. It could also involve training on how to move safely and efficiently, to reduce the risk of injuries.

The Science Behind Movement and Ergonomics

Scientific studies have shown that prolonged sitting or standing can lead to a variety of health problems, including musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular disease, and even mental health issues. On the other hand, regular movement has been shown to reduce these risks significantly.

For instance, a study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that workers who took regular breaks to move around had lower levels of discomfort and were more productive than those who didn't. Another study in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that an ergonomic intervention that included movement breaks reduced the risk of musculoskeletal disorders among office workers.

These studies highlight the importance of combining ergonomics and movement in the workplace. By designing our work environments to encourage healthy movement, and by making sure we move regularly throughout the day, we can significantly improve our health and wellbeing.

Getting Started with Movement and Ergonomics

So how can you incorporate more movement into your day, and make sure that movement is healthy and beneficial? Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Take regular breaks: Sitting or standing in one position for too long can be harmful. Try to take a short break every 30 minutes or so, even if it's just to stand up and stretch or walk around the office.

2. Use ergonomic equipment: If possible, use ergonomic furniture and equipment that encourages healthy movement. This could include standing desks, ergonomic chairs, or even simple tools like footrests or keyboard trays.

3. Get professional advice: If you're unsure about how to move safely and efficiently, consider getting advice from a professional. This could be an ergonomic consultant, a physiotherapist, or even a personal trainer. They can provide personalized advice and training to help you move in a way that's healthy and sustainable.

4. Make movement a habit: Try to make movement a regular part of your day. This could involve setting reminders to take breaks, incorporating exercise into your lunch break, or even just making a point of walking to colleagues' desks instead of emailing them.

Case Studies: Movement and Ergonomics in Action

To illustrate the power of movement and ergonomics, let's look at some real-world examples.

One company that has embraced this approach is Google. The tech giant provides its employees with adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, and even treadmill desks. They also encourage employees to take regular breaks and offer fitness classes and wellness programs.

Another example is the furniture company Steelcase. They have developed a range of ergonomic office furniture designed to promote movement, including adjustable desks, chairs with dynamic support, and even 'walkstations' that allow employees to work while walking on a treadmill.

These companies have reported significant benefits from their ergonomic initiatives, including reduced absenteeism, increased productivity, and improved employee satisfaction.

Final Thoughts

Movement truly is medicine, and an ergonomic approach to health and wellness can make a significant difference in our daily lives. By understanding the importance of movement and implementing ergonomic strategies, we can create healthier, happier, and more productive workplaces.

Looking for an Ergonomist in San Diego? Contact Postured Ergonomics today and learn how we can improve your employees health and productivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the meaning of "Movement is Medicine"?

"Movement is Medicine" is a concept that emphasizes the importance of regular, specific movement in maintaining and improving health. It suggests that incorporating movement into our daily routines can help prevent and alleviate many common health issues, including those associated with sedentary office work.

2. What is an ergonomic approach?

An ergonomic approach involves designing workplaces, products, and systems to fit the people who use them. It's about understanding how our bodies work and move, and then creating an environment that accommodates that. In the context of "Movement is Medicine", an ergonomic approach might involve designing a workplace that encourages healthy movement patterns.

3. What are examples of ergonomics in healthcare?

Examples of ergonomics in healthcare include designing hospital rooms to minimize the risk of patient falls, arranging equipment in an operating room for optimal efficiency and safety, and providing adjustable chairs and workstations for healthcare workers to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

4. How can I incorporate more movement into my workday?

There are several ways to incorporate more movement into your workday. These include taking regular breaks to stand up and stretch or walk around, using ergonomic furniture that encourages movement, getting professional advice on safe and efficient movement, and making movement a regular part of your day, such as walking to a colleague's desk instead of emailing them.

5. Are there any real-world examples of companies implementing movement and ergonomics?

Yes, many companies have implemented movement and ergonomics into their workplaces. For example, Google provides its employees with adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, and even treadmill desks. They also encourage employees to take regular breaks and offer fitness classes and wellness programs. Another example is Steelcase, a furniture company that has developed a range of ergonomic office furniture designed to promote movement.