Over the past few years, a number of studies have been done on the health effects of sitting versus standing. The evidence clearly suggests that sitting for upwards of eight hours a day – the norm for many office jobs – puts incredible strain on the body and leads to numerous adverse health effects. To combat the ills of excessive sitting, many office workers and have turned to standing desks.
However, newer studies suggest that constant standing isn’t that great either. The solution to this dilemma comes in the form adjustable height desks that allow people to shift between standing and sitting whenever they see fit.
Sitting, Standing, and Staying Healthy
Sitting for too long can lead to back pain, neck pain, reduced metabolism, high blood pressure, an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, and a host of similar problems. Add to this the compounding effects of sitting with poor posture in ergonomically challenging conditions and the picture becomes even more bleak.
Standing, on the other hand, can cause foot and leg pain, back pain, varicose veins, bad posture, swollen feet, fatigue and other related problems. So if a person stands for the entire workday, he or she is just trading one set of health problems for another.
A compromise is definitely in order, and adjustable height desks represent the product of that compromise. It is natural to move and reposition oneself while working, and adjustable height desks allow people do so without major hassle or disruption. This regular movement adjusts the total load placed on any one body part while increasing body part rest intervals. Early evidence suggests that adjustable desk height users have more energy, reduced fatigue levels and a lower likelihood of injury.
Adjusting and Customizing Height
Whether a person sits or stands, his or her arms should be bent at a 90-degree angle at the elbows when typing on a keyboard. An adjustable height desk lets the worker move the work surface so that it is at the right height for his or her arms and eyes. If the worker is very tall and the desk itself won’t go high enough, desk risers that go under the computer to give it those extra few inches are also available. Throughout the course of the day, then, the worker can raise or lower the desk as he or she sees fit without compromising on good ergonomics.
Don’t Ignore the Chair
While quality adjustable height desks go a long way towards improving the long term health outlook of office workers, the chairs that goes with them should not be overlooked. Adjustable height desks and chairs work hand in hand to promote ergonomic health. Find out more about adjustable height chairs on back issues of the OFD Blog.
Ask the Experts at Office Furniture Direct
With more than 25,000 sq. ft. of showroom space in our Long Island showroom, you’ll find adjustable height desks and a wide range of other office furniture items. Visit us today at our showroom just off Route 110, or call our team at 631.777.2027.