What Ergonomics is Not: Top 5 Common Misconceptions

When you hear the word "ergonomic", what comes to mind?

Most people probably think of office chairs, funny looking computer mice, and if you're real in the know, you might know some of the angles your elbows and knees should be at while you work. But among the bits and pieces typically known about the study there are a surprising amount of misconceptions surrounding the practice.

As more and more people adopt office and computer work, it's more important than ever to work ergonomically, both for your health and your business. Learn some of the most common misunderstandings about ergonomics to save yourself from unnecessary pain later.

Five Common Misconceptions About Ergonomics

Ergonomics is only for people who have developed an injury from computer work.

This is one of the most frequently cited reasons that people seek out ergonomic products, but ergonomics is not just for people who have been injured or are recovering from a repetitive stress injury, such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Practicing proper ergonomics is crucial for hindering the development of injuries that can affect all areas of the body, from back pain to eye strain. Do your body a favor and stop from developing these painful injuries before they start.

Ergonomics is only really important for people who type for 8 or more hours a day.

Although a lot of people who work at a computer for 8 hours a day do require proper ergonomics to stay healthy and productive, anyone can benefit from the practice. Even if you type for 15 minutes a day, a  keyboard tray can assist you in working more comfortably, which improves your happiness and overall work experience. It's little things that add up to big benefits of health and work when you upgrade your office space to include ergo-friendly products.

Investing in ergonomics is expensive and time consuming.

This rumor has gained quite a bit of traction, but it's not 100% true. While certain brands of ergonomics can break the bank, there are options for every price range to suit your buisnesses needs. Not only that, but using proper ergonomics has positive long-term for you and your business, including saving your employees from having to suffer from painful injuries that force them to miss work and add to your organization's healthcare costs. Like maintaining a car, employing proper ergonomics helps you maintain your health and even lets you better yourself by burning more calories.

Ergonomics is a one-size-fits-all solution.

The opposite is actually true here. As many different types of people as there are in this world, there are just as many body types, all deserving of products that support them in all the right ways. Working at a  sit-stand desk, ergonomic chair, or office accessory that fits your body is like piecing together the perfectly supportive team that always has your back...and wrists...and circulation. You get the idea. Let us help you pick out the proper things to help you improve working comfort.

All office products can be ergonomic.

Most ergonomic products are office products but not all office products are ergonomic. And while office chairs might look similar at first glance, but they are vastly different depending on the different adjustments they offer. Not only that, but ergonomics should be practiced as often and whenever possible, so it's incorrect to only associate it with office gear. Even crafting can be improved by working in more ergonomic postures!