A Measured Approach to Ergonomics

A critical aspect of establishing an ergonomics system to reduce injuries is establishing metrics. What should you measure yourself against? How do you know when you are doing well? This is so daunting that some health and safety professionals just take the 'do-nothing approach' or only act when absolutely necessary, which occurs after a rash of injuries.

To avoid paralysis or extremely reactionary approaches to ergonomics, there are several things you need to consider when setting objectives for your ergonomics process. The first consideration, can you measure it? The second, does it help you improve or drive continuous improvement? And, do you change your metrics to reflect the maturity of your ergonomics process?

There is no golden metric or set of measures that fits all approaches. Safety professionals know that compliance, control, and prevention are three different things in safety. It is no different with ergonomics. Ergonomics metrics can range from minimal compliance using external regulations, to injury prevention based on risk mitigation for unusual events and aging populations.

Compliance is a common approach to ergonomics metrics. However finding the measures for ergonomics compliance is more onerous than safety or hygiene, where prescriptive ergonomics have existed for years. Outside the U.S., public agencies provide some direction for ergonomics compliance. The EU and Australia have public domain documents that provide guidance on 'safe' ergonomics levels. In the U.S., outside California, many public documents are - unfortunately - outdated. However there are a few exceptions and the latest ANSI 100 Office Ergonomics Guideline and good old NIOSH Lifting Equation, are a few of the bright lights in a darkened landscape.

Companies select quantitative specifications from these types of references and measure compliance to these specifications. The 51 lb. (23 kg.) lifting standard is an example. Are all manually handle tasks less than 51 lb? - becomes a metric. These specifications are common starting points, and you if you lack metrics, identify your common injury issues and select specifications to work towards.

The sad reality is, regulatory specifications are generally insufficient to control injuries. Public standards promote minimal compliance. Compliance is a baby step toward control and prevention. Ergonomics standards require additional insight to achieve control. The lifting limit is a good example. Setting a single number for safe lifting may leave workers in many lifting tasks exposed to risk.

Although these weight specifications meet the first consideration for metrics; you can measure them. They don't drive continuous improvement and, as a result, you do have to change your metrics to mature your ergonomics process, and ultimately gain control over injury risks related to poor ergonomics.

Next time, we will get into continuous improvement and maturing metrics to control and prevent injuries and also react to unexpected events.

Learn how to reduce injuries and establish a world class ergonomics system with Auburn Engineers. Stephen Jenkins is Vice President and a Senior Consulting Ergonomist with Auburn Engineers Inc. His clients include a diverse array of Fortune 500 firms. At Auburn Engineers, Ergonomics is our Passion and our Business! http://www.ergopage.com/

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Original article

How to Prevent Lower Back Pain at Work Through Ergonomics

Lower back pain is becoming an ever increasing work-related health problem and not only stems from heavy lifting but general bad posture caused by sitting in office chairs. The principles of ergonomics help to improve the workplace, bettering the standards for employees. Looking in more detail at lower back pain, we can discuss some of the ways to prevent it through work ergonomics and make the working environment more comfortable and in turn, more efficient in terms of output.

Here are some guidelines and advice to prevent employees from suffering with lower back pain in the office:

First and foremost, one must identify the causes of lower back pain in any given work environment and then take steps to eliminate each of the causes. Prolonged periods of static posture are one of the major causes we are seeing today as many office workers spend hours upon hours sat at their computer desks. In truth, the body should change position every twenty minutes so there is some benefit in frequent breaks or an office set up where employees are required to move between stations. Even stretching from time to time can help prevent the stress a static posture can create on muscles, ligaments and tendons.

Although a little expensive at the moment, ergonomic balance ball chairs are proving incredibly beneficial to the office worker who would usually be required to stay static for hours in their standard office chair. These revolutionary chairs help to align your spine and give the user an opportunity to change positions regularly - you have to or you might lose your balance and fall off!

Yoga is another revolutionary exercise for the office worker; despite being around for centuries, yoga is only recently being recognized as a key preventer to lower back pain. If you want, you can even tie in your yoga practice with the balance ball! As an employer who needs to look after their workforce, the thought of providing a yoga class and/or yoga breaks during the working day is not so much of a crazy idea any more - there is no denying that even two sessions of ten minute yoga can enhance the physical and mental state of employees who will be able to work more efficiently in the long run.

Workstations must be set up with individuals in mind; this might mean buying office furniture that can be altered accordingly and helping each employee to set up their workstation. Positioning of the chair, desk, keyboard and computer are basic but vital principles of work ergonomics. It also depends on the task being carried out as an architect may need a slightly higher desk than a clerical officer.

The guidelines above touch on many areas within good work ergonomics and the prevention of lower back pain; all in all, the importance lies in practicing good posture throughout the working day and by exercising the muscles so that they can provide you with all the support you need.

I've been practicing yoga for many years, and now that I'm teaching yoga too, I'm excited about sharing everything I've learned. I'm interested in being able to not just teach yoga to others, but to really help people to live better lives outside the yoga studio (like in the office!). I love how yoga can enrich people's lives more than any other form of therapy. One of my favorite resources for learning about yoga therapy is Jill Miller's Yoga Tune Up® site. You should really check out her site, especially for the tips on yoga for lower back pain.

Original article

8 Reasons Why Ergonomics Makes The Difference

There are some very good reasons to practice ergonomics. The concept behind ergonomics is simple and yet, many people are reluctant to make the changes necessary to incorporate ergonomics into everyday life. As with any other change in life, it does take some concerted effort to do things differently. Understanding why ergonomics are a good idea may help you make the change a little sooner.

1) Reduce Injuries - One of the biggest reasons to consider ergonomics as a lifestyle is because it will reduce injuries. While many employees suffer from various aches and pains, many of them could be avoided by recognizing and addressing symptoms early. While many work places now have ergonomic instructions and programs, there are still many that don't. It doesn't matter if employees are lifting heavy machinery, baking cakes or working at a computer, ergonomics will make all the difference.

2) Increase Productivity - It's no secret that when workers feel better, they do a better job. When their efforts at work can be reduced by enforcing ergonomic principles, they are going to be more productive and that means greater profit for your company. Also, aches and pains can be reduced, meaning that employees feel better in general.

3) Quality of Life is Improved - Life is so much better when one is feeling good. There is motivation, determination and enthusiasm. However, when one does not feel well from work-related injuries such as Repetitive Stress Disorder (RSD) or Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), she will not be able to enjoy life. Mentally and physically, one can become very unhappy and even depressed when she is unable to do activities that she enjoys because she does not feel well. Listening to your body can go a long way in helping you get out of a rut and enable you to become refreshed and excited about life again.

4) Better Attitudes - Along with reducing injuries and increasing productivity comes better attitudes. While people can work under less than perfect conditions, it is reflected in their attitudes. Employers don't always take this into account, but morale is extremely important to productivity and efficiency. When employees feel good physically, it improves their emotional stability and enables them to not only get more work done but to feel better while they do it. The opposite of this is a person who does not feel well due to poor working conditions and/or ergonomics. He complains about his health, misses work, and is irritable and grouchy to the other employees, which affects their day as well. Employees with bad attitudes can dampen morale throughout the whole work place.

5) Reduce Fatigue - Minimizing fatigue throughout the day means having more energy at the end of the workday. Regardless of what you do each day at work, if you are straining and stressing your body, you will be exhausted at the end of the day. This will result in an inability to do the things that you enjoy. Sitting in a sturdy ergonomic chair throughout the day will give your body the support it needs. This will result in a stronger back, neck and arms that are not worn out from being in awkward, unnatural positions all day. In turn, you will be able to leave work rested and ready to enjoy time with your family.

6) Absenteeism Reduced - CTDs account for most of the "lost time injuries" according to OSHA. In other words, people miss work just because they don't feel well. Upon visiting their doctors, they learn that they have sore muscles or RSD or some other vague problem that can't be treated by a doctor. Upon questioning, however, many physicians realize that their patients' jobs are causing their health issues and will thus suggest either improved conditions, such as a better office chair. On the other hand, if a patient is feeling very poorly, the doctor may even suggest time off of work, which of course, results in lost productivity for your company.

7) Less Insurance Work - Dealing with the insurance aspect of any company can be a hassle for both the employer and his employees. Claims must be filed, forms must be completed, doctors and hospitals must be called - there is truly a wide range of tasks that must be done when dealing with insurance companies. When employees are taken care of, however, the need for medical care if often unnecessary, helping to reduce insurance work for all parties.

8) Less Employee Turnover - Last, but not least is the reduction in workers quitting. It's stressful to train new people because of the paperwork, training and acclimation to a new workplace. When injuries are reduced and morale is increased, however, fewer employees are likely to quit. This is profitable for your company and gives you a good reputation in the community.

These are just a few of the positive things that can happen when a company begins implementing an ergonomic mindset for the employers and employees alike. From the CEO down to the guy making minimum wage, ergonomics will help make everyone more satisfied and healthier. Ergonomics can and will make a difference for anyone who is willing to give it a try.

Is it time to make some improvements to the workplace? Ergonomic chairs and ergonomic desks can help improve production and the quality of life for office workers. We at Kare Products invite you to visit our website to discover a variety of office products for your business.

Original article

The History of Ergonomics

The International Ergonomics Association defines "ergonomics" thusly:

Ergonomics...is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of interactions among humans and other elements of a systems, and the profession that applies theory, principles, data and methods to design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system performance.

In simpler terms, ergonomics is the study and design of equipment and devices to better fit the human body and its movement.

Basic ergonomics has existed since the first ancestors of modern man began creating primitive tools to make tasks easier. Archaeological evidence from as far back as some of the earliest Egyptian dynasties, and other, more concrete findings from 5th Century BCE Greece, have shown that tools, household equipment, and other manmade devices illustrated sophisticated (for their time) ergonomic principles. Shortly after the Industrial Revolution, factory machinery and equipment started being built with design considerations closer to what we think of today as "ergonomics." Most of those designs, however, were created to increase the speed and efficiency of production, rather than to create comfort and/or ease of use for the workers involved.

Ergonomics in the modern sense began to become more widespread during World War II. Military equipment, machinery, and weaponry-specifically airplanes-was becoming increasingly complex. The design of airplane cockpits included highly sophisticated controls, but as these controls had little to no logical organization, even the best-trained pilots often crashed fully-functional planes. As a result, cockpit interiors were redesigned to include more easily differentiable controls and more logical control placement, grouping similar functions together.

After the innovations of World War II, ergonomics continued to flourish, as its principles were further applied to evolving technologies. The Space Race lead to what could be called "hypothetical ergonomics," as scientists tried to predict the effects of weightlessness and extreme g-forces on human functions. Perhaps the most significant development in modern ergonomics was in the field of human-computer interaction, brought on by the explosion of computer usage in the workplace and, soon after, the home.

The science of modern ergonomics includes the work of industrial engineers, occupational medical physicians, safety engineers, and many others studying both "cognitive ergonomics" (human behavior, decision making processes, perception relative to design, etc.) and "industrial ergonomics" (physical aspects of the workplace, human physical abilities, etc.).

Nearly every aspect of modern life now includes some level of ergonomic design. Automobile interiors, kitchen appliances, office chairs and desks, and other frequently used devices are designed ergonomically. Even the machines and tools used to build and assemble those devices are superbly ergonomic. By maximizing efficiency and, more importantly, user comfort and safety, ergonomics continues to make life easier.

Original article

Why Flat Pillows Aren't Enough

Even for people with the most hectic schedules, a bulk of your time is still spent in bed and in sleep, or in the office chair. Plenty of people, however, find mornings more difficult than usual not only because of the too-early alarm clocks and the many tasks that need to be done throughout the day, but also because of bad sleeping posture. The neck naturally has a C-shaped curvature that flat pillows or too soft pillows cannot properly support. To help you get a good night's sleep or to revitalize you in the office, try getting neck support.

Bare basics

With a clean white color and basic shape and design, the HoMedics Ortho Therapy Support with Velour Cover is one of the prime choices. The HoMedics Neck Cushion is just one of the many basic support items that you can get to provide neck and head alignment during sleep. These are perfect for individuals on the go, since you can also carry the portable cushions to your car to make commuting even more comfortable. Most of the these cushions come with machine washable covers and use hypoallergenic filling and fabrics to allow even the most sensitive people to enjoy a good night's sleep, or a long drive to work.

Forget coffee breaks

The office chair can be one of the most challenging and painful furniture pieces that you will encounter. Here, you will spend eight hours each day. Most office chairs do not come with adequate neck support, and are not ergonomically designed to make your work sessions any easier. If you want instant relaxation, however, try the newer neck cushions such as the Real Ease Support system. Lightweight and durable, Real Ease is the perfect companion for road trips or the office. Just lay it on a flat surface or on your seat, and relax for ten to fifteen minutes. The device will support your neck base and skull and relieve the weight from your shoulders and spinal column. It also provides the same soothing traction that orthopedics and the best massage experts can relieve. Unlike a trip to the orthopedic clinic or massage spa, however, the Real Ease Support will not cost you money. For instant relief from neck and shoulder tension as well as fatigue, skip the coffee line in the office and simply close your eyes and let Real Ease relax you.

Great sleep

If you want to wake up from a relaxing night each day, invest in a Cervical Linear Traction Neck Pillow instead. The cumulative effects of improper sleeping posture each night can add up to spine and neck bone misalignment. Even with just a few millimeters off the base, the spine and neck can already build up plenty of pressure that will manifest as full blow fatigue, cramps, and body pains in the morning. The Traction Pillow, on the other hand, will keep your spine aligned all night. It also has contours that are designed to fit into the shape of the neck and head, which promotes better breathing and less snoring - since the airways are free all night.

Make waking up fulfilling and relaxing, or make your break times in the office pleasurable and effective at keeping you de-stressed and alert, with the right neck support. For more info visit http://www.necksupport.org/.

Original article

Ergonomic Neglect Leaves a Wake of Other Problems

Worksite accidents aren't the only incidents that cause workers to suffer pain or injury. Prolonged activity, repetitive movements, general fatigue, and poor body mechanics all take their tolls on the body. Prolonged activity is anything that lasts longer than 20 minutes and can be as simple as sitting in a chair. Repetitive movements include everything from typing to scanning merchandise to assembly-line work. Fatigue can be the result of working all day or simply not getting enough rest prior to starting work. Proper body mechanics are incredibly important for several reasons: A) when someone is lifting, pushing, or pulling, poor body mechanics can lead to injury, B) poor body mechanics like slouching or tilting the head create pain and dysfunction over time, C) when the body is used to poor body mechanics, it will prefer the position that is unnatural, thereby causing the problem to worsen, and D) proper body mechanics affects and is affected by prolonged activity, repetitive movements, and fatigue.

A person who doesn't suffer from a repetitive stress injury or something that can be diagnosed can still develop enough chronic pain or discomfort and become less productive at work. Even more frustrating is when this pain causes problems outside of work and become such a tangled mess of issues that physicians can't isolate the problem.

Probably the simplest human need that is the most taken for granted is sleep. Just because a person can function on very little sleep doesn't mean he doesn't need it. Sleep is how the body recovers from the day. Rest is incredibly important to health. Rest is especially vital for a person who is active. Muscles need to recover from activity; organs need time to rejuvenate and repair. Lack of sleep is hard on the body. When a person is in pain, sleeping is more difficult. It takes longer to fall asleep, and the person may not experience a deep enough sleep to recuperate. Therefore, he is more fatigued the next day at work, causing more stress on the body and worse body mechanics. This results in having even more difficulties sleeping. The cycle is fierce, and once it's in motion, it can be tough to stop.

Both pain and difficulty sleeping can lead to depression. As far as work goes, depression takes a large toll on motivation, desire to succeed, ability to perform routine functions, and overall attitude and morale. Additionally, depression exacerbates pain and causes sleep disturbances. As work performance decreases, other risks for depression increase (lack of pride in work, lower pay, getting fired, etc.) This nasty cycle can be especially difficult to recognize. Someone who is suffering from depression as a result of work-related pain may only get treated for the depression rather than the source of the problem: chronic pain. Even if treating depression improves the condition, without addressing the pain that caused so many problems, the patient will have to treat depression indefinitely.

Society is becoming wiser to the holistic understanding of action and reaction. We are better anticipating how an action will affect more parts of the whole. Employers know that if their workers are susceptible to debilitating injury, it will negatively affect the whole of the company. Similarly, if every-day work tasks aren't considered when a company implements ergonomics or an employee develops good working and living habits, the employee and company can be impacted just as negatively as with an onsite injury. With awareness of the work setting and conscious monitoring of how the body is used, these pain-causing activities can be fixed before they lead to worse problems.

Carol Olin is Vice President of Americarts USA, a manufacturer of US-made motorized platform carts used for material transporting in hospitals, hotels and industrial cart applications. Americart USA features high quality carts price to compete with imported products. Carol has been in the material transport equipment industry for over 11 years.

Original article

Getting Up and Out of a Chair Is a Therapeutic Exercise

It may seem like a good idea, to have a chair where the seat automatically lifts you out; without having the struggle of doing it for yourself.

However, I need to be cautious of buying gadgets to help yourself in daily living, because if you are finding this activity difficult to manage; then you will also be having the same concerns when getting on & off the toilet, getting in & out of the shower / bathtub and getting in & out of bed.

If this is the case then you need to see a rehabilitation specialist who will help you manage these transfers safely. You need to talk to your family doctor who make the referral for you to see an Occupational or Physical Therapist.

Self-rising chairs are not necessary because they remove the ability of your leg muscles to do action of getting you up out of the chair. The task of transferring in and out of a chair is 'therapy', because your leg muscles will become stronger, as they get you up and out of the chair in preparation for using your legs for walking.

It may seem a tough task to complete, but trust me as an Occupational Therapist, you will be pleased that you keep pushing yourself to perform the activity; because it will becomes easier the more you practice and gain greater strength and balance in your leg muscles.

If you continue to struggle with this transfer, you must be assessed by a professional Occupational or Physical Therapist. They will advise on the correct method for getting up and out of your chair, plus assess whether your current chair is most suitable.

If you only want a lounge type chair and your chair is too low, then you certainly do not need an automatic seat lift. A high-backed chair higher chair is really all you need, otherwise you are removing a very useful exercise component out of your daily life; which will be needed other functional activities.

However, if you want a chair more working on a computer, then a comfortable ergonomic chair will be more suitable. Please make sure that the ergonomic chair is safe. If getting out of the chair is a concern, consider using one of my ergonomic chairs; as they all come with locking casters.

When I worked as a newly qualified Occupational Therapist in a hospital, one of the first activities we taught older patients, following an illness or surgery; was how to get out of the chair next to the bed. Following on from this activity was the toilet and bed transfer.

All of these are your fundamental functional activities of daily living. If you are not able to achieve any of these activities, then you will lose your ability to take care of your own personal functional performance for living independently.

So next time you look at any functional activity gadgets; remember what I write that productive movement is a therapeutic exercise for daily living. No gadget will replace the human body for use in functional activities of daily life. Learn to enjoy the movements yourself and then you will feel safe, independent and autonomous for as long as you are able to enjoy life; because everything in life always has a purpose.

If you need help or advice, ask your doctor to recommend community rehabilitation to visit you and resolve your functional mobility issues, being either an Occupational Therapist or a Physiotherapist. Both of these professions have overlapping areas of expertise that can help you in any functional mobility issue.

Please do not do not try to help yourself with gadgets, as there is always professional expertise available out there for you to use; which depending on your age is freely available.

Who then uses self-rising chairs you may ask? A good question and the answer is very few people, because they are only needed for specific medical conditions.

The first condition would be an individual, who had extensive damage in a hip or knee joint and then had the skeletal joint fixed in a rigid or straight position. It would make the transfer from a chair very difficult and often unsafe to manage. A self-rising chair would make it much easier to manage the task safely.

Also if you are badly affected by a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis, which affects both the upper and lower limb joints with pain, inflammation and weakness; a self-rising chair would help the individual reserve his/her strength, to perform other daily living activities that are needed in daily life.

If you are having difficulty getting in and out of a chair, then you should seek your doctor's advice as to whether you should be seen by an Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist. This is not a task you should be helping yourself to manage. Rehabilitation is the expertise that you require by the above professionals and should not be treated by yourself, or by sales staff in mobility stores.

The author Gail McGonigal is a qualified Occupational Therapist, with a Master's in Health Promotion. Her found new knowledge in Health Promotion has guided her thinking from working in a sickness model of coping, into a health promotion perspective of healing for quality of life. Here Gail explains the root cause of customer's skeletal problems, using her own experience of how she erased pain and discomfort in her own spine through using a productive activity, namely cycling to heal her problem. Gail explains how correct ergonomic movements & sitting erased her discomforts, by constantly sitting on her pelvic bones, that straightened the postural scoliosis in her spine. Gail has learned how positioning of skeletal joints is important for relieving pain and providing optimum comfort in functional movements.

Original article

Selecting the Right Ergonomic Computer Chair to Prevent Low Back Pain Injuries

It is always important to select a computer chair that is suitable ergonomically to sit on that chair for quite a long time for working on computer, and sitting on the wrongly chosen chair can cause severe low back pain injuries. These injuries can sometimes become severe and the only solution to prevent these is to purchase a computer chair that ergonomically maximizes your utility. The purpose of this article is to guide the reader about which criteria has to be followed in order to purchase an ergonomic computer chair.

The use of the computer is extensive in the modern world and everyone is using them. Additionally, everyone needs a perfect environment where he can sit and conveniently work. The importance of choosing an appropriate chair is increased when a low back pain or even injury is at stake. Therefore you must purchase a chair that has proper seat height, which is adjustable up to the finest height. The second most important criterion is to check the width and depth of the seat. The width should definitely fit you in which you are not squeezing, whereas the depth should fit your back resting against the back of the chair. Also, the ergonomic chair must provide you a perfect support from the back. The lower region of the back is the mostly affected part when you are not sitting on to the computer chair correctly. Additionally, the back of the chair should be such that it is adjustable by moving upwards or downwards. Other features you must look for are concerning with the support provided to your arms and head. The final thing you should look for is the topper that covers the chair. You must look for the one that is covered with fine leather or a similar type of fabric for utmost comfort. Not only can a bad chair cause severe back pain, but it can cause neck pain as well and that can become a very serious threat to your overall health and productivity.

The above tips and criteria will definitely help you out in choosing ergonomic computer chair that provides you comfort while working. Many corporations and large business that employ office workers give work benefits such as a number of free chiropractic visits each month. Be sure to use these as much as you can because a chiropractor will realign your spine with your neck and rest of your body, enabling you to be even more comfortable in your office chair and ultimately be a lot more productive.

Read my Hubpage review to find even more useful tips about the ergonomic computer chair.

Original article

Adjustable Beds: Improved Blood Flow Leads to Better Overall Health

Millions of people are choosing an adjustable bed, and it is not hard to see why. Adjustable beds come with a large variety of health benefits that make them a worthwhile investment. These "moveable mattresses" have the ability to change shape, granting adjustable bed owners the power to choose the angle at which they rest.

The circulatory system is one of the most important organ systems in the human body. Composed of the heart, arteries, veins, and capillaries, the circulatory system pumps blood throughout the body. The heart is an involuntary muscle, meaning it beats without conscious control. Its main job is to circulate oxygen and other nutrients to the entire body by way of the blood stream. Blood travels through arteries, and later capillaries, to deliver these nutrients and returns to the heart by way of veins. Without a fully functional circulatory system, the cells of the body would become starved of oxygen and nutrients. In this way the health of the human body is directly tied to the health of the circulatory system.

The strength of the circulatory system becomes even more important during the night. Sleep is associated with lower heart rates and a decreased rate in breathing. In short, the body slows down during sleep and the ability of the heart to maintain blood flow becomes critical. With an adjustable bed, a person may change the angle at which they rest. Whereas ordinary mattresses force you to sleep flat, adjustable bed mattresses can be raised or lowered at both the head and foot areas. This gives the individual the freedom to adjust the curvature of their bed until they reach a shape that reduces stress and promotes circulation. Simple changes to the tilt of the upper torso or leg areas are all that is needed to reduce stress and promote full blood circulation. Full circulation has the added benefit of promoting a deeper level of sleep.

Such beds deliver a range of other health benefits as well. For example, many adjustable bed owners report that they cease to store after using their new beds. This is because adjustable beds allow owners with snoring habits to sleep at an upright tilt. This takes pressure off of the nasal and chest cavities, allowing the user to breath more easily during the night.

These beds also help to prevent acid reflux. Acid reflux typically occurs when the acids of the stomach make their way into the esophagus. Once in the esophagus, these stomach acids may make their way up towards the mouth, creating a very unpleasant and sometimes nauseating sensation. Adjustable beds give you the ability to sleep with a mild upright tilt, making it difficult for stomach acids to enter the esophagus and cause pain.

Another benefit to owning a "moveable" mattress bed is the ability to purchase a model with a split top. A split top allows two individuals to lay in bed and control the tilt of their respective sides of the mattress. Split top adjustable beds are ideal for couples who share beds but have different sized bodies or different sleeping preferences. In this way, two individuals may share a single bed without sacrificing quality of sleep!

From increased circulation to personalized customization, adjustable beds provide their owners with a range of benefits that improve health and the ability to sleep well. These beds may be raised or lowered to create a personalized sleeping experience that improves circulation, reduces stress on the body, and stops acid reflux.

Kimberly A. Johnson specializes in physical trainer who recommends adjustable beds to her clients for the multitude of health benefits they provide. Those interested in learning more about adjustable bed frames and mattresses may see the first ever "smartbed" by Leggett and Platt, the first bed that can be controlled from your iPhone!

Original article

Searching for Your Ergonomic Chair Online

How can someone effectively wade through all the garbage online to search for the real golden nuggets deals when it comes to office chairs and specifically ergonomic chairs. Sure it's a real pain when spammers and SEO specialists are always ranking on the best terms. For example if you type ergonomic chair deals into Google right now, all the top listings will be a bunch of cookie cutter looking sites with no real substance. The fact is that these people are just searching for clicks, so the content of their sites isn't that important. So how then do we find the sites that really are out there to help the consumer find the best possible deal on that expensive Herman Miller chair, when they are buried underneath 200 pages of rubbish? The answer to this is to utilize deal sites.

Deal sites were communities created with a couple of goals in mind. First they wanted a place where local deal seekers could come together and share great bargains found while browsing the internet or shopping at stores. Second they wanted a system in place where the spammer crap could be weeded out leaving the real "green grass" essentially the great deals. This is where you need to look to find your best deals on anything whether it be ergonomic chairs or elephant ears.

The number one site that we recommend when looking to score a great office chair deal is Slickdeals. Slickdeals has a huge network of deal searchers actively looking and posting great deals that they find. Sure crappy deals on chairs, supplies and other things pop up but they are quickly removed or voted down by people in the know. If you are going to use Slickdeals, simply go to their site and use their search function in the top right corner of the screen. Input your search term, which in our case is "Herman Miller Chair" or specifically the Aeron chair. The next screen that pops up will show you all the active deals and the date they were posted. They will also list if a deal has been on the front page of their site or not. What this means is that the deal is really good and also it means that it will probably end soon since so many users only look at front page deals.

Another great site to find awesome deals chair parts and chairs themselves would be ChairSale.net, the great thing about this site is that they incorporate an API on their site that automatically searches eBay for the best deals on the selected chairs. At this particular time they don't list higher end ergonomic chairs but you would be wise to place them in your book marks as they are constantly updating their site and their content.

Now that you know some great ways to find discount prices on office chairs, it's up to you to take the next step and put the information to practice. As the saying goes, you can lead a horse to water but you can't make it drink, so act on these deals and find yourself a discounted chair.

Elite Ergonomic Chairs specializes in fact based ergonomic chair reviews. They save the consumer time and energy by handling research on brand name office furniture such as Herman Miller Chairs. M. Schuster occasionally writes articles for EEC and other "chair" sites. For more honest office chair reviews check out http://www.elite-ergonomic-chairs.com/

Original article

Significant Points to Consider Before Buying for Your Office an Ergonomic Chair

Even if you elect to change the outdated desk seats within your place of work, just make certain you have thought about all the essential elements prior to purchasing an ergonomic chair or leather office chair for your office. Let us check a few of them.

Height: The office seats need to be ergonomic and adjustable according to your size. The way you sit on your office chair depends upon the length of your legs this also influences your general sitting posture. Should there be a smaller amount of room to stretch your muscles, then you will be left with a painful leg. The many who have short legs should also stay away from high chairs as they can prompt a sagging sensation that can become rather uncomfortable after a while. It is wise to invest in an office seat which is designed with the foot rest as it can help you in firmly placing your feet in line with your sitting position. You can also get height variable chairs on the market however, you should make certain that the height of the seat is in line with the level of your knee-cap as this guarantees a comfortable sitting posture.

Headrest: Headrest not only supports your head but neck too and it is suitable for the staff who have got to attend telephones every day. Office chairs with the head rest usually are bigger than their counterparts with no head rest and so are more suitable for the substantial offices. You can also buy a drafting chair designed with the adaptable headrest. You must be sure that it's the headrest that can be moved in-out and up-down for the maximum comfort.

Arm-rest: An office seat should have an arm rest, more so for individuals that use computing devices constantly all day. Any office chair with no arm rest can add to carpal tunnel syndrome as well as other tension injuries because of a monotonic job.

Adequate back support: Proper lumbar support in the office seat is important due to the fact the back usually takes almost all of the tension whenever one sits on an office chair for a long time. Workers may sit freely in the ergonomic office chairs that give adequate back support. This guarantees that the spinal column is correctly put in line with the body of your office chair.

Prior to making a decision of a leather office seat or an ergonomic chair, you should remember that desk chairs decided on by you should meet the important requirements because this will help you in acquiring a suitable chair for your home office.

UK's leading online specialist for office chairs, next day delivery service, over 2 million pounds worth of stock to choose from And a 5 year component guarantee. To see more please visit our website at http://www.office-chairs-showroom.com/

Original article

Ergonomics and Computer Set Up

The science of workplace ergonomics, health and safety has come a long way over the last couple of decades but there is one thing we must not forget. Whilst there is a best way of setting your workstation up, no amount of ergonomic science is ever going to substitute for taking regular breaks and getting out of your chair. There is no one position you can sit in for hours on end that will not cause you an injury over time. The only position that will keep you safe from injury is the one that is constantly changing.

Bearing this in mind though, here are our suggestions for proper work-station set-up.
When sitting make sure your hips are level of even slightly higher than your knees.
If possible spend some of your time sitting on an unstable surface like a Swiss ball. While this in itself will not correct your posture it keep you moving a little instead of being dead still. If not make sure that you have a fully adjustable chair with good back support. Arm rests often get in the way so a chair is better without.
Work at an adjustable desk that you can alternate between standing and sitting at. There are many work stations that allow you to set the height you want and with the use of the right stool you can easily alternate from standing to sitting throughout the day quite easily.
Be sure to have your computer screen at the right height. If you close your eyes and sit up nice and tall, on opening your eyes the middle of the screen should be in the middle of your field of vision. If your eyes have to look down sooner or later your head will follow, then your neck, shoulders and mid-back and all the muscular aches and pains that come with being slumped over.
Never work on a laptop without using a proper docking station that will set the screen at the right height.
Try to become proficient at using the mouse with both hands.
Most importantly, take regular breaks. NO matter how good your set up is, there is no substitute for walking away and moving your body to keep you healthy.

To enjoy optimum health, keep your body moving and your mind active.

Simple rules to live by, to enjoy a long and healthy life!! So Keep on Moving!!

Original article

Measuring for Office Desks

Office desks are one of those "must have" items for your workers to do their jobs at. You may be shopping around for new furnishings to redecorate or to accommodate a new employee. Perhaps you are expanding and moving into a new office altogether. Either way, you will want to make sure that you purchase the right furnishings for your space. The style of the furniture you decide on will play a major part in the aesthetic look of your room, but one factor is highly important and cannot be overlooked - the size of the furnishings.

Why Size Matters

You may think that the size of the office desks you choose isn't ultimately the most important factor, provided the desk can fit between the four walls in question. However, the fact is that the space you have available is also needed for your employees and co-workers to maneuver around, and perhaps even for clients and professional colleagues to spend time in when paying that employee a professional visit. The space also may need to be taken up by a trash can, office machines, a work chair, a reception-style chair or two, and other such items. When a desk is too large, there isn't room for everything else to fit comfortably in the space. When a desk is too small, it can look underwhelming and may even discourage productivity and efficiency.

Measuring

When you measure for office desks, you do want to start by measuring the space from wall to wall. Then you can also measure the other items that you want to put into the room. You may not think you need to consider small items like a trash can or standing lamp, but if these are needed in room and will make a footprint on the floor, they should be considered.

Sketch It Out

After measuring the room, you will then want to draw a rough sketch of the space. You will want to draw the room as well as other items in question. Then, consider the size and placement of the office desks. You may find that it's easier to make a paper cutout of the desk and move it around in various positions on top of the sketch of the room so that you can see where the best placement would be.

Point to Keep In Mind

As you sketch out a rough draft layout for your new office desks, there are a few important things you want to keep in mind. First, if a computer will be used on the desk, as is often the case, you will not want to plan on pushing the desk flat against the wall. In fact, you may need to leave four to six inches of clearance between the desk and the wall. This is a significant amount of space, so you do want to include it in your plans. Then, consider other factors like how far the drawers of the desk pull out and how much clearance any cabinets in the desk will need. Then, make sure to consider foot traffic in the room, too. This will help you to determine if you need look at different desks than the ones you are currently considering.

Rob Schumann is a writer and researcher on products for households such as office desks. Save time and money by getting a FREE in-depth review of this product and many others including discounts and best prices at this blog: http://modernoffice.stores.yahoo.net/

Original article

How to Find the Right Ergonomic Stool

Finding the right ergonomic stool for your work environment may seem like an arduous and overwhelming task, especially if you do not know where to begin looking or even worse do not know what to look for. Unfortunately there is not one universal ergonomic stool that will work for everyone as each individual has their own unique work set up and each requires its own specialized seating solution. The first step towards finding the right ergonomic stool for your work station is to recognize need for one, whether you work at a higher work station and standard office chairs do not meet your height requirements, or you are simply looking for an alternative seating solution to relieve back pain. Anyone who works at a desk station should feel comfortable while they are sitting in order to stay focused and stay productive; when your chair starts making you feel uncomfortable, it is crucial to find an ergonomic solution that will ease your pain and more importantly keep you comfortable while working. Ergonomic stools are a good place to start looking, but first it is important to understand the different types of ergonomic stools available to determine which will work best for your work environment.

Sit Stand Stools

Ergonomic sit stand stools offer a flexible design that provides a surface to sit down when necessary or as a surface to lean against when standing. They permit the ease of transfer from a sitting to a standing position in a quick fashion. They come with an extended seat height that is higher than most standard office chairs and can be adjusted to meet your specific height requirements. Sit stand stools come standard with seat height adjustment while more ergonomic versions come with seat angle adjustment as well to allow for people to lean against while standing. Sit stand stools are most effectively used in environments and professions that require standing most of the day such as labs, pharmacies, production lines, for architects, for artists, for painters, for bank tellers, or for anyone that sits at a counter.

Saddle Stools

Saddle stools are a unique stool option that are designed to help alleviate lower back pain, reduce pain in the shoulders and neck, minimize headaches, prevent muscular tension fatigue, and help correct bad posture. Sitting in a similar position as one would while sitting on an equestrian saddle enables the user to sit in a widened stance that helps improve blood circulation and corrects you from sitting with bad posture. They are typically used in conjunction with your current office chair but can also be used as your primary seating solution once you get accustomed to the stool. These ergonomic stools are best used in a fast paced environment where there is a frequent need to move and stretch. Some professions that best benefit from saddle stools include dentists, nurses, lab assistants, vets, therapists, hair dressers, technicians, and musicians.

Drafting Stools

Drafting stools are the perfect addition to any work environment with a raised work station where a normal office chair would not be able to be raised high enough to meet the height requirements. There are many different drafting stools available to choose from, which is why you need to know exactly what you are looking for before making any purchasing decisions. If you suffer from back pain, you will want to find an ergonomic drafting stool that offers built-in lumbar support and preferably an adjustable back rest that will allow you to properly position the support to your lower back. It is also best to have more adjustability than less, so look for a drafting stool that offers multiple adjustments such as back angle adjustment, seat angle adjustment, and back height adjustment. Also keep in mind most drafting chairs will not allow you to lean back and recline like a typical office chair would for safety concerns.

Motion Stools

Motion stools are both rare and scarce in design option available, however the few that are available are becoming a popular choice for many offices and homes across the world. A motion stool does exactly what its name implies, provides continual motion while sitting. It allows the user to move from side to side or front to back with little effort keeping you moving all throughout the day without falling over or leaving your seat. They are an ideal choice for exercising your legs, back, and abdominal muscles while also relieving and preventing soreness or stiffness caused by sitting in the same position for extended periods of time. With their backless design, they are also remind the user to sit up straight with correct posture. Just like a saddle stool, they can also be used alongside your current office chair when you need a break from conventional seating or can be used independently for all day sitting.

Ergonomic stools are beneficial for anyone looking to sit healthier and with better posture while relieving back pain at the same time. With the multiple stool options available, it is important to take the time to fully understand the benefits of each to figure out which will work best for your work environment. You will also want to take into consideration where the stool will be used, for example, will it be used at a raised work station? Are you looking for a stool to replace your current office chair? Do you need a stool that will allow you to move around quickly and efficiently?

Because these are specialty items, they often can not be found at typical office furniture retail locations and can usually only be found online. Online retailers have many different ergonomic stool choices available and if you are still apprehensive about which stool to choose, their customer service can walk you through each of the options available to help you make sure it will work for your home or work environment. Any reputable website will take the time to ensure you are going to be happy with your purchase and fully understand what you are looking for.

Chelsea Alves is the marketing manager for Sitbetter.com, a company with more than 30 years experience in the office seating and office furniture industry. Dedicated to finding the best chairs for you, at the best price possible, with the best customer service available. For more information on ergonomic stools please visit http://www.sitbetter.com/sorted/search/stools/

Original article

Don't Get Office Worker Syndrome

You know that posture that you have at work? You may even have it right now: you know what I mean....sitting slumped in your chair with slouched shoulders and your head straining forward, eyes looking down at the computer screen. Sound familiar?

This unhealthy position can lead to a number of ailment including headaches, neck stiffness, tension in the shoulders and contribute to low back pain. These symptoms can affect your productivity while you're working as well as make you feel terrible.

With the proliferation of computers, laptops and smartphones, doctors and other practitioners see so many people with this condition that we could even give it a name -- Office Worker Syndrome or OWS. (OWS also stands for Occupy Wall Street, but that's another story!) Unfortunately OWS doesn't just happen at work. It can strike at home too, at your home office or while using your laptop on your couch. Even when using a smartphone, if you have your head constantly down reading messages and checking the internet, it can cause pain and stiffness in the neck and shoulders.

An easy solution to help OWS is to monitor your monitor at your workstation. When your eyes look straight ahead, they should strike the screen in its centre. You might be shocked to find out that you're actually looking above your monitor when you do this! A hefty yellow pages directory would be good for this but they also sell monitor stands to raise it up.

You may say, I can't raise the screen because I work on a laptop. Most of us use a laptop while we're sitting on the couch and while this is fine for some quick searching or emailing, it's not ideal for a prolonged work session. Sitting at a table or desk will help decrease the strain on your posture and allow you to use a separate keyboard and mouse to raise the laptop to the desirable height.

If you find that you can't raise your monitor high enough, try lowering your chair! Sit with both feet flat on the ground and see if that helps.

When using your smartphone, be conscious of your head position. Try to lift your head periodically, or raise your arm and read your screen at eye level so that your head is upright. It's hard to change, but it will be worth it in the long run.

These small changes will help to reduce the effect of OWS but this may not be enough if you already suffer from some of these symptoms. If you do, chiropractic care and massage therapy are two ways to help deal with the neck stiffness, headaches, mid back tension and low back pain.

You don't have to suffer from the "ows" of OWS!

Dr. Maya Pande is the owner of Pande Family Wellness Centre in Toronto. She graduated from the University of Western Ontario and completed her Chiropractic education at Logan College of Chiropractic in St. Louis, Missouri in 1997. Dr. Pande treats a variety of patients, including seniors, pregnant women, children and adults of all ages. Common conditions include low back pain, chronic neck pain, sciatic nerve pain, shoulder joint pain, headache and many others. The low-force chiropractic technique she uses is ideal for everyone especially those preferring a more gentle approach to chiropractic care. http://www.pandechiropractic.ca/

Original article

The Benefits Of A Herman Miller Ergonomic Chair

The Herman Miller ergonomic chair is a wonderful innovation designed to make life easier when sitting. Ergonomic is a term synonymous with Herman Miller who has revolutionized the way we sit at desks and computers. Ergonomics is the study of interaction between humans and the environment they are using. By studying this, we can discover how to make it a better relationship introducing comfortable or stress-free furniture that will make life and work much easier.

Herman Miller has been in the field of ergonomics for some considerable time so this company knows a thing or two about creating furniture designed to co-exist naturally with humans. The business has gone from strength to strength as people are becoming more aware of the cause of problems in backs, wrists, necks and shoulders and are taking steps to eradicate or greatly ease these problems.

The Herman Miller ergonomic chair is generally made from material much different to other kinds of chairs, although some models do now use leather. They are designed in a mesh-like material and are adjustable. The adjustability is extremely important as this ensures the whole back, neck and sometimes the head are fully supported, whether sitting or reclining. The comfort of the seating and the back rest are equally important too and that is why Herman Miller uses a kind of memory foam on some of their range, which is designed to adjust to every contour of the body and fully support it in place. Armrests are included with some types of ergonomically designed chairs too and these keep the arms relaxed and supported which eases the shoulders and neck muscles.

We do not realize just how much we move about when sitting at a computer or a desk. If you just thought about it and recorded just 5 minutes of you sitting there, you would see the various positions form leaning forward, back, twisting sideways and a multitude of angles in between. This starts to give you some idea of the toil your body takes all the time. The Herman Miller ergonomic chair takes all these things into account and accounts for the constant varied shifts in position and allows the chair full flow to move with you, ensuring complete comfort and support at all times.

As these products are sought after and they are considered a world leader in the field of furniture ergonomics, many manufacturers have tried to imitate their products. However, it has to be said that none have really come close to the professional quality offered by Herman Miller. The prices may be cheaper but so is the furniture quality. Herman Miller's products have been scientifically proven to reduce back pain and stiffness experienced by many sufferers. In addition, painful wrists and joints at elbows and shoulders were significantly reduced and in some cases eradicated altogether just by a change in chair. How revolutionary is that!

The price of Herman Miller ergonomic chairs are on the pricey side and for this reason, some people are unable to use them as they are simply way out of their price bracket. That being said, if you ever get the opportunity to try out or acquire a Herman Miller ergonomic chair; it is recommended that you make good use of it. Your back will be very grateful if you did!

Original article

How to Go About Buying the Right Office Furniture

Buying furniture is never fun and buying office furniture is even less fun. It can be very expensive and no matter what you end up buying, it never looks quite as luxurious as you would like. Especially if you are shopping in your local office supply store, your choices will be limited and you may end up with items that you either don't need or really don't like.

Chairs

When you are buying office furniture, perhaps the most important items will be the chairs. You probably are only thinking in terms of office chairs, but you will also need reception chairs and conference chairs. Each type of chair has its own special purpose, and although ideally they should all match either in color or style, that is not always the case.

When you are choosing office chairs, make sure that the people who are using them are given an opportunity for input since they will be the ones that will have to live with them. In other words, choosing the cheapest office chairs is not always the best idea if you want to get productivity out of your staff.

Tables and Desks

Tables and desks are office furniture that you will also need, and although most people just opt for basic training or conference tables, when it comes to desks, you need to think about what they will be used for. If your staff uses computers all the time, then make sure that the desks are technology-friendly and can be wired properly. If not, you will end up with messy, dusty, spaghetti junctions of wires behind each desk.

When you shop online for office furniture, you will see that there are many styles and colors of desks, some of which are large and U-shaped and others that are designed for multiple users in one day. It is best to choose modular type furniture, as this will allow you to move your office easier and grow if you need to.

Storage

Storage for your files and paperwork is also something that you will need to shop for. Some people like filing to be part of a person's desk, while others want it separate. Either way, it is nice if it matches the rest of your furniture and ideally is part of a modular system that you can move or connect up with other pieces.

Ergonomic Office Furniture

There has been a big move toward ergonomic furniture in the last couple of decades, primarily because so many of us spend so much time at our desks. Whether you work at a computer all day or just sometimes, it is still good to have both a desk and a chair that fit your body. Ergonomic chairs are not always the most pleasing, but they are designed to make you sit up straight, with your feet on the floor. They usually have arms on them so that you can rest your elbows while you are typing, and they have support for your hips, your lower back, and your neck as well.

Rob Schumann is a writer and researcher on products for households such as the office furniture. Save time and money by getting a FREE in-depth review of this product and many others including discounts and best prices at this blog: http://modernoffice.stores.yahoo.net/

Original article

Why Comfort Matters When Choosing Office Furniture

Shopping for office furniture isn't easy. So many people will spend a lot of time focusing on finding stylish furnishings that fit into a certain budget while shopping around. This certainly is important, as you want to create a definite aesthetic look to your space. Yet one feature of furnishings for your professional environment that often goes overlooked is the comfort factor. So why does comfort matter so much?

Waiting Rooms

Whether you have a professional office environment, a medical environment, or some other similar setting, you likely have a waiting room and need to find office furniture for this space. Largely, this is an area that will be furnished with waiting room chairs and maybe a few end tables to place magazines, books, and other such items on them to entertain your customers, clients, and office guests while they wait. Whether your visitors normally wait for five minutes, thirty minutes, or longer, you do not want them sitting in a stiff, uncomfortable chair waiting to see you. This will make their visit unpleasant and puts them in a negative mindset before they get to visit with you.

Conference Rooms

Another area that you may be shopping around and trying to find office furniture for is a conference room. Many offices do have a conference room, and this includes banks, real estate offices, medical environments, and more. Here, you may meet with professional business colleagues, clients, and others, and you certainly want to focus on creating a professional look here that captures the essence of your office environment. However, some meetings may last for ten minutes, and others may last for an hour or longer, and during this time you want your clients and colleagues to be relaxed and at ease so you and they can focus on the business at hand.

Work Desks

If your office area is like most, employees sit at their desks for a large chunk of the day and likely for hours at a stretch. Finding comfortable office furniture for this space is critical, as you want your employees to be comfortable and able to focus on their work fully. If employees are constantly fidgeting, adjusting their chairs, stretching out their muscle aches and pains, and more, they are not focused on their work and therefore are not as productive as they could be. For this reason, many offices are now looking at installing chairs that have an ergonomic design element and that have an adjustable height, too.

Finding the Right Furnishings

As you can see, shopping around for office furniture does indeed involve more than just considering your budget and aesthetics. The comfort of your chairs in the various areas of your office is important for fostering good relationships with clients and colleagues as well as for promoting productivity and even overall health and well being of your employees, too. As you shop around for your furnishings, you definitely want to keep comfort features in mind to ensure you create the best overall environment for those who work in your office daily and who pay you an occasional visit, too.

Rob Schumann is a writer and researcher on products for households such as the office furniture. Save time and money by getting a FREE in-depth review of this product and many others including discounts and best prices at this blog: http://modernoffice.stores.yahoo.net/

Original article

Riser Recliner Chairs - The Best Riser Recliner Chair Ideas and Reviews

A comfy Riser Recliner chair is one of life's great delights. Ergonomics, advanced design and top-notch technology unite, to bring you the amazing comfort in these chairs. A proper seating position permits you to carry out various daily tasks with ease and in a relaxed manner. It is very important that the attributes of a riser recliner match with your body shape and needs.

The best recliners can offer huge health benefits to people suffering from various health issues. Electric riser chairs allow you to sit in and get up from the chair very easily. They are effortless to use and are controlled with a handset. Recliner chair is an excellent tool for people who are afflicted with mobility problems. If you want to lead an independent life without the need of asking people for help to lift you out of your chair, this is your solution.

Most of the recliner sofa can be controlled with a remote device. The chairs are very user-friendly and easy to use. The functioning is very smooth and they can be operated without much hassle. There are several types of recliners like electric, manual, massage chairs, risers, flex-steel recliners, swivel, rocker and combination recliner.

1. Electric - It has a motor that allows the chair to recline the back of the chair and lift the footrest.

2. Electric riser chair - This chair is usually used for someone who is disabled and is not able to move on their own. These riser chairs are equipped with a remote device to operate them. One can lean against the recliner sofa and move it to the sitting position. This chair can be customized to suit your height and body shape.

3. Massage chairs - People who are suffering from body aches can use this as a massage doctor. There are generally four types of massage controls staring from rolling, kneading, and leading to compression and percussion, which can be varied on your need on a particular day. These massages can even be pre-programmed for the entire week to provide a range of massages.

4. Rocker and Swivel chair - These chairs can swivel or rock for your contentment and comfort.

5. Manual chair - This chair is not fitted with electronic devices. This is simple to handle and has a lever with which you can lift the chair as well as recline it.

Riser recliner chairs can be complemented with a sofa-set to present a striking lounge setting for you to enjoy. These chairs can be fitted with cup holders, built-in trays and other comfortable choices for the recliner aficionado.

I know how hard it is on your body. But if you really wanted to know that secret formula for your comfort, check it out here at LEATHER SOFA RECLINER. You are just a click away from getting the best comfort for your life.

Liane K Spenser, a Next-Gen mobility expert provides the latest techniques in human comfort for FREE. Focusing on the design and customization of innovative mobility chairs, Hopkins provides the most practical and cost effective approaches.

He has also worked extensively on providing help to aged people, and offers his expert opinion on CHAIRS FOR THE ELDERLY. Get it for FREE by clicking the link.

Original article

The Lumbar Carries the Load

The lumbar region is the lower back area, opposite the abdomen, just between the diaphragm and the pelvis. Compared to the vertebrae that make up the rest of the spine, the five located in the lumbar region are the largest and strongest. The spinal cord ends just between the first and second vertebrae, however this is also the area in which the roots of the sciatic nerve begin. Thus, when an injury or disorder develops in the lower back it can affect the sciatic nerve, causing pain to run down both legs and into the feet.

The lumbar region is the one area of the spine that carries the most weight and has the most flexibility demanded of it. The complex network of muscles located in the lower back assist with, not only flexibility, but also rotation and strength. All of these factors together mean the lumbar region is very susceptible to strain or injury. Of course there are also several other factors causing conditions of the lumbar, such as lordosis and anatomical factors created either naturally or through repetitive strains.

Lumbar hyperlordosis is the most common of lumbar conditions, it is identified by stress or extra weight causing the lumbar region to arch excessively. Often referred to as swayback, this state will force the muscles into such into such stress that they spasm and cause the sufferer great pain. Beginning with factors occurring naturally in the body, the occurrence of too many or not enough vertebrae in the lumbar region can lead to lordosis. Too many vertebrae would cause more flexibility than the muscles can adequately handle, and too few would cause to little flexibility. In the case of the latter, the individual could push for more flexibility and end up injuring themselves.

One of the most common contributors to lordosis is uneven muscle strength. The basic concept of muscle function is based on each muscle having another working in opposition to it. The muscles in the lumbar region must therefore have equal strength to those opposing them, in the abdomen. If the stomach muscles are stronger than those in the lumbar area, swayback will occur. This is a very common event in high level weight training.

In the care of the back and fostering good posture, medical professionals use the term 'neutral spine'. It refers to the three natural curves of the healthy spine, their description and normal position. Ideally, from the beginning of the cervical stem, the spine curves out in the thoracic area and inwards to the lumbar, and just slightly out again for the pelvic region. Also, in a perfect scenario the ears, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles should all line up as if a wire was strung straight down through the torso. When the spine is in its proper curvature, muscles are relaxed as well as stress on the joints and vertebrae is greatly reduced.

An un-neutral spine occurs when alignment is off. Undue stress is put on the joints and muscles, causing eventual lower back pain. Whether the individual practices improper posture when they are walking or sitting or both, it can cause damage in the long run. Consider a working life of sitting for five to seven hours a day with an un-neutral spine. The diaphragm is perpetually pushed up and not permitted to fully inflate or deflate. Therefore the body is not able to take in full breaths of air, lowering oxygenation in the blood, which then leads to fatigue and impaired thought processes. Depending on the overall health of the individual, long periods of improper posture can impede organ function as well. With increased pressure on the abdomen, organs cannot work efficiently; specifically the liver, kidneys and lungs.

The neutral spine is more easily attained than it may sound. By seeking the assistance of a professional, one can learn what the proper posture feels and looks like in all three positions (sitting, standing, lying prone), and practice achieving it on their own. If a normal work environment entails long periods of sitting, then it may be prudent to obtain suitable seating that will help maintain the neutral spine. Support specifically designed for your individual height, weight, body type and common work movements will mean the difference between a neutral spine and an un-neutral spine. The same plan of action could also be taken for a mattress. Since it is near impossible to maintain a specific posture during sleep, consider taking care of the problem with a specialized mattress that will comfortably support your body in the best position.

The lumber region is a fairly sensitive area if we consider the intricate system of nerves and muscles intertwined with the largest vertebrae in the human body. Ironically, it is also the most used region of the back. Without a functional lumbar region we could not maintain mobility, and certainly not function normally. Look after your lumber carefully; after all it does carry the load.

At Body Built we understand that no to people are built exactly alike, why try to conform your unique body shape to a one-size-fits-all chair? We design your ergonomic chair to fit your particular body's natural posture as determined by NASA research. Then we build each ergonomic chair one person at a time, from our millions of  possible configurations. Visit us online today to view our full product list!

Original article

Making the Right Choice When Buying Office Chairs

A poor office chair can jeopardize your performance at work. Among all other office furniture, you should have a chair which will provide you comfort and full functionality as well. Some neglect the idea of finding the right chair thinking that it is just the stress which causes them to commit mistakes in their work and cause their body pains. But I tell you, if you often experience body pains, then your chair may not be providing you the right support. Having the right office chair will contribute to improving your work efficiency.

Your chair should not just be any kind of chair. It should be designed ergonomically. When you speak of ergonomic office chairs, it means that they are specifically made to fit the needs of your body like having the proper parts to aid your movements and positions. Being comfortable is not enough, it should provide the right support to prevent you from having body aches to make you functional and efficient.

Points to Consider when Buying Office Chairs

1. It should fit perfectly with your sitting height. Take into consideration the height of your office table so that your hands are leveled with the top of your desk. A good office chair will not require you to stoop or push yourself up just to reach the top of the table and be able to write properly. Your feet should also be able to lie flat on the floor. Usually 16-21 inches is the perfect height for a n office chair. Modern furniture offers chairs that can be adjusted in height so they may work well with other tables of various types.

2. It will be more convenient for you if it has armrests so you can relax those tired arms better.

3. An adjustable back rest which can be moved backward will help you recline better when you want to rest for a while from all your work. The back rest of the chair is a foremost consideration among all other parts of the chair. It is advisable that it is 12-19 inches in height. Some back rests come with an upper support for the head and nape.

4. A chair with wheels and swivel feature will make it easier for you to move around. Make sure that your back really fits the chair so you would not experience back pains.

5. There are also office chairs with footrests which make them more comfortable just like the recliner sofa you have at home.

6. If you want optimum comfort and durability go for leather office chairs. However, you may need a larger budget if you are to buy leather chairs. You can still go for fabric chairs if you are short of money. They prove to be comfortable as well and you can have them upholstered. Do not buy cushions that are too soft as they will give you back pains. Test the cushions and make sure that they are made of materials that can support heavy weights.

7. Your chair should fit perfectly in your office so you can still place other furniture in the room.

A good office chair will be your best buddy at work. It will help you to be relaxed and at ease despite the heavy work you have and will equally help you function at your best so you may meet your deadlines and finish all your tasks expertly.

Modern furniture for your office is also the concern of lafurntiurestore.com. Office chairs that are ergonomically designed can be found in their site along with other office furniture.

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What the Standing Desk Can Do for Your Health

Sedentary lifestyles that involve prolonged periods of sitting have been linked to a variety of health problems, including obesity, heart disease and chronic back pain. Our bodies were not designed to be inactive for hours on end. Our biological processes, from metabolism to joint lubrication, rely on movement.

Many office workers are seeking to reduce the risk of back pain and other health problems by switching out their standard desks for standing desks. These allow you to maintain an upright position throughout the day and encourage more movement, as you're already on your feet.

Back pain commonly occurs while sitting due to the strain poor posture places on the lower back. Even for people with a developed core muscle group, the abdominal muscles eventually give out during an 8-hour day of sitting, leaving the lower back muscles with the brunt of the work. When standing, your lower back muscles are assisted not only by stomach muscles, but by muscles of the pelvis, buttocks and legs to support the upper body's weight.

Of course, standing all day in one position is almost as bad as sitting all day. Standing desks can be equipped with high stools and footrests to allow you to rest your feet and legs occasionally. As with a normal sit-down desk, it is also important to move around, such as by taking a few minutes to stretch every hour or taking brief walks around the office.

Most standing desks are very simplistic in design, involving a shelf for a computer, a shelf for a keyboard and sometimes an extra shelf or drawer for other belongings. Some are the length of regular desks, while others are simply made to be computer stations. Depending on the intricacy and features of the desk, the price can range from $150 to many thousands of dollars. The most expensive are the hydraulic adjustable desks that serve as both full-size sitting and standing desks.

Those looking for the cheapest option should consider a do-it-yourself desk. First, you'll need to know the ergonomic measurements of a proper desk. See http://notebooks.com/2011/05/03/standing-desk-guide-measurements-examples-and-benefits/ for important guidelines.

The possibilities of a do-it-yourself standing desk end with your creativity. You can stack phone books on top of your current desk and place a board on top of them to hold your monitor, and another board and lower stack of books for your keyboard. You can buy wall shelves and install them at the proper heights for a standing desk. So long as you maintain the proper measurements, you have created a the desk. An attractive DIY desk that can be made from IKEA components for little money can be found at http://www.ikeahackers.net/2011/01/wide-standing-desk.html.

Employers may also want to follow in the paths of Google and Facebook company heads by incorporating standing desks into their offices. Workers have reported increased energy and productivity throughout the day when standing.

When coupled with frequent movement, standing desks offer workers and students an easy way to prevent and resolve back pain. Talk with your employer about creating a more ergonomic work environment.

Education in back pain is the cheapest form of self preservation. Learn about what causes back pain and 4 other things that cause sciatic nerve pain.

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Common Work-Related Pain and Dysfunction

Attention to ergonomics has helped decrease the incidents of work-related Musculo Skeletal Disorders (MSDs); however, they still account for about 1/3 of work-related injuries and illnesses. No matter how great or small the physical demands of a job, the body can wear down from a variety of daily tasks. There seems to be a growing number of dysfunctions that can result from work-related activities. Here is a breakdown of some common MSDs.

General Overuse - Overuse during work or play can affect the body in a number of ways. General overuse of limbs in people who are poorly conditioned, use awkward postures when using the affected limb, or have poor posture are prone to bursitis and tendonitis. Very simply, these are inflammation in the bursa (fluid-filled sac beneath the tendons) or tendons (tissue connecting muscles to bones) respectively. They typically cause pain and stiffness. Ceasing the culprit activity and correcting positioning of the body during activity are common preventative measures.
Eye Problems - Staring at a computer can cause problems with both vision and comfort in the eyes. Computer Vision Syndrome can affect both the quality of vision (blurred, strained, etc.) and comfort levels (headaches, eye pain, neck pain, etc.) Dry Eye Syndrome describes a decrease in the ability for the eyes to bathe through tears properly. Frequent breaks from looking at a computer and from looking at objects up close can help prevent these issues.
Wrist and Forearm Pain - These disorders are often also considered overuse injuries, though they specifically develop from repetitive movements of the fingers and wrist, including gripping, pinching, grasping, and twisting. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is arguably the most common MSD, creating weakness, pain, tingling, and numbness in the wrist and fingers. De Quervain's Disease affects the side of the wrist and forearm, causing pain and swelling in those areas.
Arm Pain Associated With the Elbow - Tenderness, pain, and numbness in the hand and fingers may also indicate stress at the elbow. Epicondylitis (Golfer's and Tennis Elbow) is caused byexcessive stress of the forearm muscles and tendons. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is numbness, tingling, and pain from compressing the ulnar nerve through direct pressure (resting elbows on a hard surface) or elbow flexion.Low Back and Leg Pain - Some of the most debilitating and excruciating MSDs are those that occur in the low back. Pain in the low back and legs may indicate sprain/strain in the lumbar spine or sciatica. Improper/frequent posture, compression, movement, and weight load on the spine can cause these serious back problems.

Signs or symptoms of a work-related MSD should be brought to the attention of the employer and examined by a trained physician. Early detection is critical not only to assist with the healing process, but also to correct any fixable problems at the work site. Ergonomic solutions are best when implemented as early as possible. Calling attention to a potential problem may prevent a number of workers from developing a work-related MSD.

Carol Olin is Vice President of Americarts USA, a manufacturer of US-made motorized platform carts used for material transporting in hospitals, hotels and industrial cart applications. Americart USA features high quality carts price to compete with imported products. Carol has been in the material transport equipment industry for over 11 years. Americart USA has several original articles on their website relating to work related injuries.

Original article

What to Look For When Buying Office Desks

Long gone are the days when office desks were simple. They are now very elaborate, made of a variety of materials, and come in all shapes, sizes, materials, and configurations. You will find some that are modular, and others are pre-wired, while there are still those that are more traditional. So when you are shopping for office desks, it is a good idea to first determine what you are looking for.

Size and Configuration

Believe it or not, not everyone likes the feeling of being trapped behind an L-shaped or U-shaped desk, nor is it appropriate for all working conditions. These can be very nice and they certainly allow the owner plenty of room for all of their equipment, and files. However, they take up a lot of room. Unless you have a rather large office or are working out of an open floor plan, these types of desks might be too much.

On the other hand, you can find much smaller office desks that have a hutch above for filing, and cabinets below that will serve the very same purpose without taking up quite as much space.

Technology

One of the most important features of modern office desks is how well they work with technology. About twenty years ago, new desks were manufactured for desktop computer users, but you will find that more and more of them are designed now for people who are working on laptops. This means that there is no sliding keyboard drawer and that there is no room left for the CPU below.

However, you will still want your desk to be able to be wired efficiently. This usually means that there are cut-out sections within the desk so that you can thread various wires and power cords. If you will be having a phone, a lamp, or a computer on your desk, then choosing among office desks that have this functionality is important.

Modularity

Modular offices became very popular in the 1970s when there were a lot of open floor plans in office buildings. Over the years, they have gone out of style as everyone wanted their own "real" office. But with times as hard as they are right now, sometimes modular is better. This type of office allows you to change configurations at any time, move pieces easily, and make up an office out of bits and pieces. By looking at office desks that are part of a modular system, you might end up saving money in the long run.

Style and Materials

Depending on what kind of office you have, the look, style, and the materials of the office desks you are looking at might be important. Especially if you are buying a desk for an executive (or yourself!), then you will want the nicest one possible. You can find desks in a variety of materials, from cherry and mahogany to oak and walnut, all of which create a very different look, but remember that functionality is always more important than looks when it comes to buying office desks.

Rob Schumann is a writer and researcher on products for households such as office desks. Save time and money by getting a FREE in-depth review of this product and many others including discounts and best prices at this blog: http://modernoffice.stores.yahoo.net/

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The Relationship Between Back Pain And Posture Explained

Do you have a history of neck pain, shoulder pain or lower back pain without any rhyme or reason for it occurring? It could be because of some injury you had sometime in your past but if you are like most of us, then you may be experiencing chronic back pain due to a misalignment of your spine anatomy due to a lifetime of bad posture habits.

Posture, Really?

Back pain, in and of itself is most often a symptom of another underlying problem. It could simply mean that your spine is out of alignment due to bad posture, or it could be something worse, like a herniated disc or scoliosis. No matter what, you need to get it checked by a doctor or chiropractor before it becomes far more serious. However, you would be surprised just how much back pain can be alleviated simply by developing good posture habits.

• Good posture means always standing as straight as possible, with both feet spaced evenly apart. Your shoulders should be back, not hunched even the slightest bit forward. Your head and neck should be elevated, with your chin elevated as least four inches above your collarbone.

• Good posture means sitting with your behind tucked back against the edge of the seat, not in the middle. The small of your back should be supported by the lumbar support of the seat back, and curved as little as possible. Again, your shoulders should be back, not hunched forward and your head and neck up. Your feet should be planted firmly on the floor, and evenly spaced apart.

How to Improve Posture

This used to be something we all practiced in elementary school but over the years, the practice has pretty much died out. There are several simple exercises that you can do to improve your overall stance, and take some of the pressure off of your lower back and spine. The first one, done while sitting on the floor, is a simple one. Sit with your back against the wall, with your legs straight out in front of you. Slowly roll a medium-sized ball from your lap to your feet, without moving either leg, or bouncing yourself to reach the end. Move as slowly as possible. The purpose of this is to slowly decompress your spine, strengthen your back muscles and improve your flexibility. Do this for about five minutes or 10 repetitions.

Another simple exercise to improve your posture is a classic one. Find a large book that can easily be balanced on your head. Stand with your back flat against the wall, and reach up with both hands to place the book on top of your head. With your arms down by your sides, slowly pace across the room, keeping the book as evenly balanced as possible. You will notice, as you do this, that if you slouch your shoulders forward or let your chin dip down, the book will slide off. Practice these things every day, and you will see improvement in both your stance, and your pain.

Want to learn more about how your posture can affect your health? The dedicated professionals at the Chiropractor Center of Lakeland care about you and want you to be in the best shape possible. Call them for an assessment today. Also check out our new page on Posture.

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Shopping for Office Furniture: Tips for Buying Reception Seating

Whether you have a small office that does not regularly enjoy the pleasure of visits by professional colleagues and clients or you run a busy office with people constantly coming and going throughout the day, you will find that reception seating is highly important to your space. If you are shopping for new chairs for your office, there are some points you will want to keep in mind so that you can create a welcome, inviting, and comfortable space for everyone who visits your office.

Number of Chairs

One of the most important things to consider when purchasing new reception seating for your office is the number of chairs you will need. You can consider the average number of visitors that come into your office each day or you can ask your receptionist to keep a count of how many people are in the waiting area each hour for several days. Keep in mind that children should be counted as well, and a stroller tally should be kept. If people with strollers normally visit the office, you will find that you want to have ample space left in your area for those strollers to be parked.

Other Furnishings

Very few reception seating areas are filled with chairs and nothing else. Some may have a TV hanging on the wall, and most will have at least a few end tables and maybe a coffee table, too, with reading material like current magazines stacked on top. If kids are regular visitors to the office, a small play area or a kid-sized table and chairs with toys or books may be included in the space, too. These are important considerations, as they will limit the number of chairs you can put in your space.

If Space Is Limited

In many cases, the reception seating area will be limited in space, and you may find it difficult to accommodate the number of chairs needed in the space. Keep in mind that chairs can not only be placed against the wall, but they can also be placed back to back in the middle of the room, too. You may find that adding a couch can add seating to the space, and this is especially beneficial if families visit the office, as a family of four or even five can squeeze together on a couch and kids can sit on parents' laps, too. You can also consider getting rid of a coffee table and adding a standing magazine rack to conserve space.

Room to Move

While you definitely want everyone who visits your office to be comfortable, you do not want to include so much reception seating that there is not space to move comfortably. You don't want to see your guests standing around waiting for their appointment or meeting, but you also don't want to see them constantly having to adjust their legs and move out of the way just to allow others to get by. So as you plan out your space, be sure to allow ample space for movement throughout the room.

Rob Schumann is a writer and researcher on products for households such as the office furniture. Save time and money by getting a FREE in-depth review of this product and many others including discounts and best prices at this blog: http://modernoffice.stores.yahoo.net/

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Organizing Your Office Furniture For An Ergonomically-Designed Room

Long hours of sitting in the office chair can lead to a variety of health conditions particularly linked to the spine, the wrists, and the eyes. There are two methods to prevent this; one is performing stretching exercise every now and then. Although this is an effective way to prevent back pains and other aches in the body due to sitting for long hours, a more efficient method is applying ergonomics in choosing and arranging office furniture.

Since your body is in contact with it most of the time, it's only logical to pay extra attention to the office chair. An office chair that's not designed ergonomically is the reason for most people experiencing pain in the neck and back. When choosing a chair, pick one that permits you to sit with your knees bending at a ninety degree angle and both the soles of your feet touching the floor. It should also allow you to lean completely without stressing your back muscles.

Proceed to selecting the perfect desk to come with the chair. Usually, these two furniture come together. However, if you purchased a chair separately, select a desk that will compliment it. The ideal height of the desk should be a little higher than the waist but not level with the chest. You should be able to rest your elbows and arms on the desk perfectly without straining them.

How you set up your computer system is also a crucial when arranging the office desk. See to it that the computer monitor and the keyboard are positioned and aligned with the square of your body. This will prevent you from having to turn your neck from side to side all the time. Pick a keyboard and a mouse that are ergonomically built as well to lower your risk for repetitive movement and carpal tunnel syndrome.

You will also have to pay attention to other office furniture. When accessing documents, see to it that you are straining your back muscles too much. In your office cubicle, place important items such as the telephone in a spot where you can reach it easily. Placing items in different portions of the desk or the cubicle will only require you to exert much effort particularly in your upper back.

Ergonomics, whether at home or in the office, plays an important role in maintaining the health of different parts of the body, particularly the spinal column, the back muscles, the wrist, and the eyes. It is also crucial if you want to remain effective in performing your office work.

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