Ergonomic Solutions for Tall Desks: Keyboard Trays, Low Height Chairs, and Workstation Upgrades
30 Oct 2023
According to Pete Wilkins from GamingCareers, many esports professionals experience repetitive strain injury (RSI) due to flawed ergonomic setups and repetitive movements. RSI can hinder computer-related activities and potentially lead to more severe injuries. The standard desktop height of 27 to 30 inches may not be suitable for petite or average-height users, causing discomfort and various problems like shoulder, back, and neck pain. While switching to a new desk can be inconvenient and costly, there are affordable solutions to adapt your existing tall desk. By using a regular office chair and a few inexpensive gadgets, you can make your tall desk more ergonomic and alleviate potential health issues.
1. Consider purchasing a medium height chair with a 5" cylinder and a footrest for improved ergonomics.
Pros: Raise your seat height for comfortable typing and eliminate foot dangling with a footrest, which is an affordable solution.
Cons:
A. Lack of stability: The footrest may not provide a stable platform, leading to potential issues with chair control and relying on arms and shoulders to adjust proximity to the keyboard.
B. Prolonged sitting: While this solution works for those primarily sitting during the workday, sitting for extended periods can contribute to serious health concerns. Although inexpensive, it is considered less desirable due to these reasons.
2. Improve Ergonomics with a Low Height Chair and Under Desk Keyboard Tray
Pros: The Keyboard Tray option offers the advantage of bringing the keyboard closer to your lap, providing relief for arm and shoulder pain. Additionally, a 4" cylinder height is suitable for petite individuals, allowing them to comfortably rest their feet flat on the floor.
Cons: It's important to note that relying solely on a sitting solution, such as a Keyboard Tray, may not be the healthiest choice as sitting for extended periods can have negative effects.
By considering a range of solutions and incorporating various healthy habits, you can optimize your workspace for both comfort and overall well-being.
3. Upgrade Your Workstation: Buy a Low Height Chair with 4" Cylinder and Desk Converter
Pros: Affordable and Versatile Desk Converter for Sit-Stand Work: A desk converter is a cost-effective solution that allows you to easily switch between sitting and standing while working. It brings the keyboard below the desktop, promoting better ergonomics and reducing strain on your body.
Cons: Challenging to Achieve Ideal Monitor Position: One potential drawback is that achieving the perfect working position can be challenging if your monitor is not properly adjusted to your eye level. This may require additional adjustments or accessories to ensure proper ergonomics and reduce strain on your neck and eyes.
4. Enhance Your Ergonomic Setup: Purchase a Low Height Chair with 4" Cylinder, Sit-Stand Desk, and Monitor Arm
Pros: The versatility of a Sit-Stand Desk allows you to easily switch between sitting and standing positions while working. Additionally, using a Monitor Arm enables precise adjustments to align your monitor with your eye level and set the keyboard at a comfortable typing height.
Cons: One drawback of this ergonomic setup is the higher cost compared to other options available in the market.
5. The Benefits of Keyboard Trays for Improved Ergonomics
Achieving good ergonomics is crucial for maintaining a comfortable work environment. According to experts, positioning your keyboard and mouse to ensure a neutral wrist posture is essential. Due to variations in body structures and personal requirements, achieving a neutral wrist position lacks a universally applicable solution.One helpful tip for heavy computer users is to place the keyboard and mouse close to the belly button. It's also important to avoid raising your shoulders to compensate for a desk that is too low, as it can strain your back and neck. Additionally, desk chair armrests positioned above your elbows' natural position can contribute to poor posture.
But what if your desk is too tall, even with your chair adjusted to its maximum height? Fear not, as there is a simple and cost-effective solution: a keyboard tray. Keyboard trays, although not as popular as they used to be, are still highly effective in lowering the keyboard and bringing it closer to your torso. They not only improve ergonomics but also free up space on your desk and have a sleek appearance. If you're concerned about drilling into your desk, clamp-on keyboard trays are a viable alternative. Look for trays with two clamps for added stability and ensure that your desk has enough space for a tray if it has a protruding frame.
Ultimately, finding the right ergonomic setup is a personal journey. Everyone is unique, and different activities, such as gaming, may require varying amounts of mouse movement. It's crucial to experiment with different positions to find what is most comfortable and enables you to maintain good posture while working or gaming.