Posture Assessment and Ergonomic Advice

Many people have issues with their posture, which can exacerbate pain and predispose us to injury. Common postural abnormalities include rounded shoulders, forward head, rounded upper back, anterior or posterior pelvic tilt, foot supination (high arch) or pronation (flat foot). Everyday activities such as sitting at a desk, carrying young children, using smartphones and even some sporting activities can increase your risk of developing postural issues.

Here at Imokilly Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic, we are skilled in postural assessment which includes evaluation of both resting and dynamic postures and identifying any joint stiffness or muscle imbalances. We will also take into account your daily activities, such as work, study, home and sporting activities.

Your Chartered physiotherapist can then educate you on the best way to improve your posture which may include advice on your ergonomic work set-up, such as the ideal screen, desk, and chair height. This has become even more relevant recently due to the number of people remote-working due the Covid-19 pandemic. It will often also include an exercise programme to strengthen weak muscles, stretch tight muscles and increase mobility in any stiff joints. Pilates is also a great way to improve your posture (see physio-led pilates).

Ergonomics studies the relationship between people and their work environment. It is very important to optimise the ergonomic set-up within the working environment to avoid injuries, aches and pains. This has become particularly relevant recently due to the number of people remote-working due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Many injuries occur due to faulty work ergonomics, including:

• Back Pain
• Neck Pain
• Headaches
• Wrist Pain
• Repetitive Strain Injury
• Pins and Needles/Numbness in Hands and Fingers

At Imokilly Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic, we are able to advise on individual workstation assessments at the request of the employer or employee. This includes:

• Correct back and neck postures when sitting or standing
• Correct monitor height and viewing distance
• Optimum keyboard positioning
• Relevance of regular breaks from sitting
• Correct chair/desk height ratio
• Use of ergonomic tools e.g. lumbar supports for your back
• Recommendations on workstation layout

For further information on Physiotherapy and the services available, please do not hesitate to contact us:

Imokilly Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic at (021) 4636642 or email appointments@imokillyphysio.com