By guest blogger Dr. Divya Desai (CEAS, OTD, OTR/L) Ergonomics is a science driven profession that attempts to maximize human performance while minimizing risk for injuries. The goal of an ergonomic intervention is to modify work to meet the needs of the worker – not the other way around. For instance, when a worker has a desk too high for his height, he may accommodate by raising his shoulders a bit. However, doing this day after day, for year may result in neck and upper back discomfort. The ergonomic intervention for this person would include lowering the desk or increasing the height of the chair (in addition to other modifications). When the work is adjusted to meet the workers’ needs, they are less likely to have aches, pains, discomfort or injury. It is a common notion that ergonomics involves fitting a new office chair, but it is much more than that. There are many factors that influence how you sit at work and function: the type of keyboard-mouse, lighting or glare, your clothing and accessories, your lifestyle (sedentary or active). Ergonomics takes in to account these factors and suggests modifications based on expected final outcome, which may be to decrease discomfort, increase productivity, save on worker’s […]