In this article
Are you reading this standing at your desk? If not, is this something you should be considering? Standing desks are increasingly popular with sales of standing desks skyrocketing in recent years…..
The average working week in Brisbane is 40.2 hours and most people spend approximately five hours commuting to and from work each week. For office workers that represents a whopping 45 hours spent sitting every week. Toss in the time you spend watching TV and eating meals and the amount of time you spend sedentary is extremely high.
Standing Desk Pros
Standing desks have been an interesting phenomenon in our offices and at home in recent years. With their benefits much debated, numerous studies have only added to the confusion over their benefits. While a standing desk can’t replace physical activity during the day, they can be beneficial by ensuring we sit less, while still getting through our working day.
- Research by Texas A&M indicates standing desks can increase productivity and problem-solving skills.
- Standing up also helps the body burn more calories than it does while sitting.
- Standing helps your body stretch out, increasing blood flow, and engages your core, glutes and leg muscles reducing postural related pain.
- Standing desk advocates report experiencing increased energy levels and greater mental alertness
- Sitting for protracted lengths of time is bad for you as any spinal consultant will verify.
Standing Desk Cons
- Standing for extended periods of time can trigger joint and back pain, swelling, and fatigue.
- Standing can also exacerbate poor posture, contributing to postural syndrome if you don’t choose an ergonomically efficient standing desk.
- Some studies indicate standing desks don’t positively impact productivity.
- The absence of long-term studies on the effects of standing desks in the work environment.
If you’re going to opt for a standing desk, it is important you use it correctly. Here are our recommendations for correct usage.
Correct Usage
- Adjust your standing desk height correctly. Your standing desk should sit slightly below your elbow height when your elbows are bent 90⁰ to your side.
- Position your screen correctly. The top 1/3 of your monitor should rest at eye level.
- Situate your keyboard and mouse correctly. You should be able to reach your keys and your mouse without moving your elbow away from your side.
- Posture. Stand with your weight evenly distributed on both feet, shoulders down, lower back in a neutral position, knees soft and head upright and not bending forwards.
- Combine your standing desk with an anti-fatigue mat. This cushions your feet and makes standing easier on your body.
- Have a comfortable pair of flat shoes on hand for when you are using your standing desk.
Incorrect Usage
- Wearing heels or uncomfortable shoes. Ladies, ditch those heels! Leave a pair of flats or comfortable sneakers you can wear while standing at your desk.
- Never lean on your desk. This ruins your posture and defeats the point of standing.
- Put your weight on one hip. Keep your weight evenly distributed between your feet.
- Stand for too long initially. Work your way into your standing desk.
Consult Your Physiotherapist Today
Are you aware poor posture might also contribute to other spinal issues in your neck, muscle spasms, and nerve irritation? If left untreated postural syndrome can trigger other conditions such as shoulder problems.
As postural issues can impact other areas of your body, our spine consultant at The Brisbane Spine Clinic will carry out a comprehensive assessment to identify postural issues so we can recommend a treatment plan. To get in touch for a consultation phone (07) 3841 3070
*Please note, content within this article is for educational purposes only and treatment and advice mentioned may not be suited for everyone. Please consult a team member at the Brisbane Spine Clinic or your General Practitioner for specific advice.
