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Training people how to sit ergonomically should happen concurrently with training people how to use computers.   Prior to the smart phone, computers were used mostly for work and were found mostly in the workplace.

Since about 1985, companies were audited and fined if it was discovered they did not report a MSD experienced by one (1) employee to OSHA.    In fact, most MSD’s are called Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSD’s).   The fines to companies do nothing to help the individuals who are already suffering from a MSD that could have been prevented.

MSD’s may occur before someone enters the workforce because of the change in how computers are used; and waiting until someone enters the workforce to tell them about ergonomics may be setting them up to be disabled before they even begin working as WMSD’s account for between 50 – 80 percent of all disability payments.

Anyone who uses a computer or sits for more than two hours at a time without taking a break can reduce risk factors that lead to musculoskeletal pain and musculoskeletal disorders (MSD’s), such as back pain, by making small changes to their posture.

Author: Melanie Loomos

I was a court reporter for 10 years and spent most of my time in very uncomfortable chairs. As a result, I spent years researching seating and submitted two patent applications: "The Carpal Tunnel Chair,” and "The Pillow with Cantilever Supports," which was granted and became The Buttpillow®. Subsequently, The Buttpillow® was improved upon as it was determined different embodiments were needed for proper ergonomic positioning depending on the individual sitter. The Patented "Ergonomic Seating Cushion,” was was granted by the USPTO; and was later amended to include an embodiment specifically to help women maintain the natural curve of their lumbar spine during the second and third trimester of pregnancy. An extreme lumbar curve that restricts blood flow to the fetus is the only external risk factor for low birth weight babies. Subsequently, in 2003, I invented Ergosoft™ break reminder software based on OSHAs Ergonomic Standard so people can identify and minimize ergonomic risk factors for the development of sitting-related pain, eye strain, DVT and carpal tunnel syndrome. View all posts by Melanie Loomos