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Summary
Ergonomics looks at what kind of work you do, what tools you use and your whole job environment. The aim is to find the best fit between you and your job conditions. Examples of ergonomic changes to your work might include
- Adjusting the position of your computer keyboard to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome
- Being sure that the height of your desk chair allows your feet to rest flat on floor
- Learning the right way to lift heavy objects to prevent back injuries
- Using handle coatings or special gloves to suppress vibrations from power tools
- Making sure that you have good posture in whatever you do, whether it is sitting in front of a computer, standing at a checkout, or walking around a warehouse
No matter what the job is, the goal is to make sure that you are safe, comfortable, and less prone to work-related injuries.
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Repetitive Motion Disorders
(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
- Workplace Ergonomics Reference Guide (TRICARE Management Activity) - PDF
Related Issues
- Computer Workstation: Pointer/Mouse (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
- Computer Workstations: Desks (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
- Computer Workstations: Good Working Positions (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
- Computer Workstations: Keyboards (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
- Computer Workstations: Wrist/Palm Supports (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)
- Easy Ergonomics: A Guide to Selecting Non-Powered Hand Tools (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) - PDF
Specifics
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Ergonomic Chairs
(National Institutes of Health, Office of Research Services, Division of Safety)
- Ergonomic Strategies for Using a Briefcase (American Occupational Therapy Association) - PDF
- Ergonomic Strategies for Using a Purse (American Occupational Therapy Association) - PDF
- Using Smart Phones Wisely: Prevent Pain (American Occupational Therapy Association)
Statistics and Research
- Nonfatal Occupational Injuries and Illnesses Requiring Days Away from Work, 2012 (Bureau of Labor Statistics) - PDF
Clinical Trials
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ClinicalTrials.gov: Cumulative Trauma Disorders
(National Institutes of Health)
Journal Articles References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
Find an Expert
Children
- Backpack Strategies for Parents and Students (American Occupational Therapy Association) - PDF
Teenagers
- Repetitive Stress Injuries (Nemours Foundation) Also in Spanish