What is the Right Way to Use Adjustable Height Desks?

 Adjustable height desk is a great weapon for fighting "sitting disease," but you are wise to ask this question because you don't want to trade off one set of health risks for another.

 

What is the right way to use adjustable height desks?

Sit, stand, move- that's what you want to do all day. Keep the circulation flowing to avoid static postures. A posture that is a neutral relaxed posture when you're sitting or standing is going to support you a whole lot better than a posture that is leaning forward with you shoulders scrunched to you neck and your head looking up or down to the monitor. So the best answer is to mix it up, stand upright and relaxed and yes, an anti-fatigue mat that is cushioned will make a difference for standing. Even more important is having your adjustable height desk whether you're sitting or standing at the correct height for you-feet flat on the floor, elbows level with your wrist. Being able to adjust the monitor for sitting or standing easily is optimal. When things are easy to use, or easy to adjust, we do it. So, change it up and take care of your health. Sit when you're tired, stand often and be sure to leave your desk to keep the circulation flowing!

 

How long should you stand up?

 

Of course individuals will vary in how many hours at a time they'll feel comfortable standing, as it depends on the health and structure of their feet, the comfort of their shoes, their body weight and numerous other factors. It's very subjective, in other words. However, it's universally true that you don't want to stand for too long at a time or you'll risk developing problems in your feet, lower back and along the posterior chain, as well as varicose veins. The key is to alternate between sitting and standing several times a day. Best is to add walking motion by using a Maidesite desk that also doubles as a sitting and adjustable height desk. 

  

One tip: when you're done working each day leave your adjustable height desk set to standing height, to bias your morning routine to start with standing, not sitting.