HR Newsletters 2021

HOME OFFICE — THE NEW NORMAL A CHALLENGE FOR 2021

Ergonomic health is important to our daily well-being-Dr. Davidson

Dr. LaToya Sterling

2020 has brought about many challenges! We all have heard statements like “we are in unprecedented times,” “the new normal,” and the constant reminders that we are in a pandemic. Everything is centered around virtual work, being six-feet apart, using sanitizers, and hand-washing. A few things we did not realize when taking on the new normal is the effects on our health including our men- tal and physical well- being. For example, it was not uncommon for us to invite our co-workers and colleagues into our homes to socialize or have a business meeting. However, with the new normal, all of a sudden there an immediate challenge for us to have a home office; with the daily zoom meetings, constant webinars, non- stop emails, and the occasional phone call. Our environment changed, but the work remained. In a recent interview with Neil Davidson, Doctor of Physical Therapy, he stated, “There is a recent uptick in patients with neck and back pain since the start of the pandemic. Many of my patients were not prepared for an at home office and took to the couch, bed and kitchen table to complete their work not realizing what seemed to be a comfortable area would have such an effect on the body.” Dr. Davidson recommends getting a desk with an office chair and moving every couple of hours as you would if you were in your office building. “Frequent mobility is very important as it relates to our overall physical health. You do not want to stay in one position too long,” said Davidson. A recent article in the Better Home and Garden magazine by Katy Kiick Condon, January 2020, imaged by Agnese Biocchi, has outlined a visual for a great seating position for an at home office. The article highlights correct seating position, lighting, and background. Creating a space that is quiet, provides natural lighting, and a nice background is key to a nice home office. Also, remember to keep your camera lenses clean and avoid any glass frames in the background which may cause a glare. According to Dr. Davidson, virtual work should not put our health into compromising situations; rather, it should be configured to allow us to be more focused and active which is congruent with healthy work habits. In the first few months of the quarantine, we were provided with several webinars designed to keep us fo- cused on our health by the professional development office. Two of the biggest tips was getting dressed every day and eating healthy. Remember, ergonomic health is important to our daily well-being and work produc- tivity.

Condon, K. K. (2020, January). Life/Ask bh&g. Better Homes and Garden , 13.

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