Standing Desks

A standing desk is a workstation that allows you to conduct the duties of your normal workday while standing up instead of sitting. Benefits of a standing desk can include reduced stress and fatigue as well as improved mood and energy levels.See Disclosure ¹ Another reason to switch to a standup desk is the possible detrimental health effects associated with sitting for long periods of time without significant movement. This may include neck and back pain, among other ailments.See Disclosure ²

One solution is a standing desk that allows you to stand while you work. Another option is to use a standing desk converter that sits on top of a traditional work desk surface, and lets you raise the platform as needed for working while standing. With this option, you can choose to alternate sitting and standing as you wish.

Along with switching to a stand-up desk design, you may also want to evaluate other ways your work space encourages productivity. For instance, when you’re working standing up, is the lighting adequate, or do you need to add a desk lamp, perhaps one that adjusts to provide ample light specifically where you need it? Other work space components you might also want to evaluate include chairs for guests, positioning of bulletin boards, shelving locations and even office decor that can spice up an otherwise bland area and lighten your mood.

Once you’ve made the decision to stand for at least part of each workday, you may want to consider a couple of ways to help maximize ergonomic benefits. First, when you’re using either an adjustable standing desk or a standup desk converter, you’ll want to make sure the work surface and computer screens are properly adjusted for your comfort. For many, that means the top of the monitor is at eye level, and the desktop is approximately at elbow height.

You may also want to consider desk accessories that promote comfortable, non-tiring ways of performing your work functions. An ergonomic keyboard is designed to help you type comfortably, while encouraging good hand and wrist posture, and a keyboard tray adjusts to the optimal position to provide maximum comfort and wrist health. Some tray models include an adjustable mouse pad you can use with an ergonomic mouse for a flexible range of motion that can contribute to relaxed use and natural positioning. You’ll likely also want to wear comfortable shoes, as dressier shoes like high heels may not pair well with using a standing desk or a sit-stand desk converter.

Additional information:

These statements and any information contained herein are intended for educational purposes only and are not meant to substitute for medical care or to prescribe treatment for any specific health condition. Carefully review product labels for instructions and important safety information and consider consulting with a health care professional regarding your use of health and wellness products.