"Sit up straight, or you'll end up with round shoulders," our parents would tell us. This oft-imparted wisdom, which had little to do with science, made us think about the importance of good posture when seated. Today, that admonition has been replaced by the concept of optimal physiological position.
"The success of ergonomics at the office, as far as our posture at work goes, is based on researching and maintaining an optimal physiological position," says ergonomist René J. Comtois. It helps prevent back pain, tendonitis, bursitis and other work-related ailments. This research applies to the work we perform at our computer workstations but also to other tasks as well. It's simple and effective.
The Optimal Physiological Position
What exactly is the optimal physiological position? It's the best sitting position-i.e., the one least likely to cause short- and long-term pain and discomfort.
The following are the fundamentals of an optimal physiological position:
- Both feet flat on the floor
- Straight legs
- Thighs parallel to the floor (knees at the same height as the hips and no pressure on back of knees)
- Small of the back resting against the back of the chair, that is, the pressure point when the person is seated
- Arms straight
- Forearms parallel to the floor
- Forearms, wrists and hands in line so wrists are straight
- Head straight so neck is straight
- (Frontal view) elbows as close as possible to the body, without stretching the arm used to hold the mouse
According to Comtois, each person's anthropometrical profile (physical characteristics) as well as the furniture/equipment and how it is arranged, must be taken into consideration when determining the position that feels most comfortable and relaxed (i.e., the position that requires the least effort and where the body is least stressed).
Ergonomists must combine all these variables when analyzing workstations in order to determine where the problems are (not unlike TV repairmen of yesteryear who had to figure out which tube had burnt out).
According to Desjardins Financial Security data, problems related to the musculoskeletal system are the second most common cause of disability at work!
N.B.: In addition to being an ergonomist, René J. Comtois is director of the ergonomic-ergotherapy division at Groupe Conseil McKinnon, senior ergonomist at the Université du Québec à Montréal, and the author of several books, including a guide on how to purchase office furniture and equipment (2002) and spec sheets on posture, best viewing positions and mini breaks (2002). He is also a regular contributor to the French station morning show Salut, Bonjour!.
Interesting Links
