Ergonomics is defined as the designing and improving of the workplace, workstation, tools, equipment and procedures of work in order to limit fatigue, discomfort and injuries while efficiently achieving work, personal and organizational goals. Ergonomics is improving the design of a job(s) or work station that has caused injuries.

Ergonomics is also defined as a controlling of errors, wasted motion, tools, material damage and quality of work. Ergonomics is about human and work site efficiency.

The revolution or evolution of technology often exceeds the capabilities of the human design. The computer mouse was designed to simplify computer operations, while this has been achieved; it has often led to repetitive motion, contact stress and awkward arm positions that often exceed the capabilities of the wrist and finger muscles.

The human body is designed to move and respond to the stresses placed upon the active (muscles), passive (joint-supporting structures) and neurological (control) systems. As we become increasingly dependent upon the technology to help improve or make our lives easier – we have become less active. Our working environments have become extremely specialized and task-specific. Most of the work force today, spends approximately 47 hours a week performing repetitive motions and maintaining awkward positions for prolonged periods of time. Also, there are countless hours at home spent at our home computers. The increase musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are defined as injuries or disorders of soft tissue (muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, joints, cartilage and spinal discs.

Ergonomics is one variable that can be modified to help reduce musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Ergonomic programs have demonstrated reductions in job-related injuries and costs, reductions in employee turnover and absenteeism, increased work productivity and quality, improved employee well-being, and overall improvement in business performance.

As a clinical exercise specialist (CES), it is frustrating to watch clients make improvement in basic musculoskeletal stability, postural awareness, increased strength gains and the resolving of injuries only to be negated by the activities in their working and living environments. Because ergonomics is the study of the interaction between the human body and machines (equipment and tasks), it is important to establish a reasonable and well balanced work station, as well as, a well balanced body.

At FirstHealth of Andover, we have an ergonomic team that can assess your work station and present the most effective way to help you resolve possible ergonomic concerns. It makes sense to establish a healthy balance between you and your work world.

Resources:
www.osha.org

- Donna M. Schneider, BS, CES, CPT, CEAS