Ergonomics and Occupational Therapy

In today’s world, when the pace of work is accelerating and lifestyles are changing, the most pressing question is how to maintain a balance between our physical and mental health. Sitting for long periods of time, hunching over a computer screen, or lifting heavy objects all directly impact our bones, muscles, and mental health.

The solutions to these problems are ergonomics and occupational therapy.

Both aim to increase human performance, reduce injury and stress, and improve quality of life.

Let’s explore them in detail –

Table of Contents

What is ergonomics?

Ergonomics means designing work and workplaces in a way that is conducive to the body and mind.

For example:

Office chairs should provide lumbar support.
Computer screens should be at eye level.
Table heights should be consistent with the body’s natural posture.

The main goals of ergonomics are:

Injury Prevention
Work Efficiency
Correct Body Posture
Reduced Fatigue

What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy is a method of therapy that helps people regain or improve their ability to perform everyday tasks.
This is especially important for people who:

Are recovering from an injury
Are undergoing rehabilitation after an accident
Are experiencing a physical disability
Are experiencing stress/anxiety

An occupational therapist’s job is to:

Evaluate the patient’s working style
Recommend appropriate equipment, techniques, and strategies
Make daily activities easier

The Interrelationship Between Ergonomics and Occupational Therapy

Both have the same goal: to help people work and live better.

While ergonomics adapts the workplace to the individual, occupational therapy enables the individual to perform their work.

Example:

If an employee has persistent back pain, ergonomics will design the right chair and table for them.

The occupational therapist will teach them proper sitting, standing, and stretching exercises.

The Importance of Ergonomics in the Workplace

These days, companies and institutions pay special attention to ergonomics because:

Employee productivity increases.
Sick leave decreases.
Stress and injuries decrease.
Some important measures:
A comfortable office chair
A table at the right height
A mouse and keyboard that supports the hands and wrists
Maintaining a proper distance from the screen
Taking short breaks during work

How does occupational therapy improve quality of life?

Occupational therapy helps people not only physically but also mentally.

It makes them independent.
It restores the ability to perform daily tasks.
Boosts confidence.
Improves mental health.

Example:
If a person has a broken arm and is unable to write or eat, an occupational therapist will make these tasks easier through new methods and equipment.

Ergonomics + Occupational Therapy = Best Results

When the two combine, the effect is doubled.
Optimizing the workplace (Ergonomics)
Increasing a person’s work capacity (Occupational Therapy)

The combination of the two is especially useful:

For office workers

For factory workers
For the elderly and disabled
For patients after an injury or accident

Common Problems and Their Solutions

Back and neck pain – Adopting the correct chair and sitting posture.
Wrist pain (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome) – Ergonomic keyboards and stretching exercises.
Eye fatigue – Maintaining a proper distance from the screen and the 20-20-20 rule (looking 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes).
Mental stress – Relaxation techniques and breaks through occupational therapy.