How important is it to have a height-adjustable desk? Consider this: if you work in an office, you’re likely to spend over 75% of your working day sitting at your desk. This sedentary activity is proven to have negative effects on your health from back pain to mental fatigue, obesity and cardiovascular disease. Fortunately, height adjustable office desks, including sit-stand desks, offer numerous benefits that can mitigate the pitfalls of a job with limited physical activity.
1. Reduction in back pain and other musculoskeletal issues
We all have unique bodies with different heights, weights, muscle tone and body composition so a desk that is comfortable for one person won’t necessarily be right for another.
Sitting at a desk which is either too low or too high can cause musculoskeletal injury as it forces us to extend or compress our spines unnaturally, placing stress on muscles in our hips and neck which causes chronic pain and stiffness. Furthermore, a desk at the wrong height places a employee at risk of shoulder and wrist strain or RSI as their mouse and keyboard are not in an optimal position. A height-adjustable office desk allows employees to create a workstation that promotes a more natural posture for their body type so they can work without strain.
Height adjustable sit-stand desks in particular offer even more ergonomic benefit for a very simple reason: our bodies are designed to move. When you stand or move about, your spine stays in a more natural position, reducing the pressure on your lower back. Additionally, standing encourages subtle movements and shifts in weight, which when alternated with sitting, help to reduce stiffness and discomfort.
Furthermore, According to Vic Health, Musculoskeletal disorders related to prolonged sitting make up 44% of workplace compensation cases at an average of $7400 per case and a significant portion of sick leave. For office managers, investing in a height-adjustable sit-stand desk makes sense for business and workplace wellbeing.
2. Higher levels of alertness and focus
It’s a myth that you need to sit still to concentrate (as this video proves). One of the most compelling reasons to invest in height adjustable or sit-stand office desks is the significant boost in productivity and focus they offer.
The pain and discomfort of sitting at a desk that is the wrong height and isn’t set up to be ergonomically correct is both distracting and tiring as our muscles and brain work harder to focus.
Furthermore, sitting for prolonged periods can lead to mental fatigue and a decrease in concentration. Fortunately, incorporating standing intervals can invigorate your mind. Switching between sitting and standing promotes better blood flow and oxygenation, which can enhance cognitive function and keep you more alert.
3. Enhanced mental well-being and job satisfaction
The benefits of height adjustable office desks extend beyond physical health; they also contribute to mental well-being.
Being uncomfortable all day because of sitting at an ergonomically poor workstation puts employees in a state of stress and frustration, often causing a reduction in productivity and creativity. Being unable to produce a high quality or quantity of work affects an employee’s confidence and deepens the stress cycle.
Moreover, switching sitting and standing while working has been linked to better mood and energy levels. The increased movement promotes blood circulation and helps to release endorphins, which can enhance your sense of well-being.
By providing a height-adjustable desk and comfortable working environment, employees feel that their contributions and wellbeing are valued, which ultimately leads to a more positive and productive work environment.
Getting the most out of a height adjustable office desk
While height adjustable office desks offer numerous benefits, it’s essential to set up your workspace correctly to maximize these advantages. Here are some tips on how to choose the right chair and arrange your desk setup for optimal ergonomics:
Choosing the right furniture
- An Ergonomic Chair: Invest in an ergonomic chair that supports your lower back and promotes good posture. Look for features such as full adjustability for seat height, depth and lumbar support, a swivel base and arms.
- A height adjustable desk: Look for desks with a sturdy metal frame with an electronic mechanism to adjust the height – this will reduce strain on the body when setting the desk to the desired height and makes it easy to change for new users. BFX has a great range, including corner desk and double-desk options.
- A sit-stand desk: Seek out options with anti-collision technology and that have a wide height range. You can also purchase additions that transform existing desks into sit-stand desks.
- A stool: If you have chosen a sit-stand desk, you’ll benefit from an adjustable stool with a supportive back and swivel seat like a drafting stool or a motion stool, rather than a chair.
BFX carries a selection of Exercise Physiologist Preferred Products so you can be confident of the ergonomic benefits they offer.
Setting Up Your Workspace
Comcare offer a simple PDF guide to help you set up a workstation and sit-stand desk. However, the basic principles are:
- Desk Height: Adjust your height adjustable desk so that your elbows are at a 90-degree angle when typing. Your wrists should be straight, and your hands should be at or slightly below elbow level to prevent strain.
- Monitor Placement: Position your monitor(s) at eye level, an arms-length away from your face. This will help reduce neck strain and ensure you maintain good posture whether sitting or standing.
- Keyboard and Mouse: Place your keyboard and mouse on the same surface and within easy reach. When standing, your keyboard should be at the same height as it would be when sitting, allowing for a seamless transition between positions.
- Footrests and Mats: Consider using a footrest when sitting to maintain proper posture and a cushioned mat when standing to reduce fatigue and discomfort.
- Movement Breaks: Incorporate regular breaks into your routine to stretch and move around. Even with a sit-stand desk, it’s essential to take time away from your workstation to prevent stiffness and improve circulation. A wireless headset is a great investment as it allows you to move around or even walk when you’re on a call.
More than just a trend
Sit-stand or height adjustable office desks are more than just a trendy addition to modern workspaces and home offices; they can make a significant difference to productivity, comfort and overall well-being.
BFX work with allied health professionals such as physiotherapists and exercise physiologists to select and design ergonomically beneficial furniture products that make offices happier and healthier places to be. Speak to our experienced team to find out how we can equip your office.
