Proper Desk Height for Ergonomics
There’s nothing worse than sitting at your desk for long periods and feeling like you have to lie down and rest your back after four or five hours. Ensuring your desk is at the right height will reduce the potential for back strain and pain—helping you stay productive all day!
Keep reading as we explore everything you need to know about the correct desk height for ergonomics. This guide will give you the knowledge to adjust your desk or chair perfectly.
Are you considering a more ergonomic office design? Check out the ergonomic furniture at Freedman’s—productivity starts with comfort!
Eyes
You should aim to position the very top of your screen at eye level. When you stretch out your arm, your monitor should be a perfect arm’s length from you. This way, you will have perfect visibility of your computer screen without straining your neck or eyes.
Neck
Your neck should be upright when sitting or standing at your desk. You should have ample support for your shoulders, and your neck should not be hunched forward. Otherwise, you may experience pain known as “text neck,” which is quite common without proper ergonomics.
Spine
You should have a straight spine when sitting at your desk. If you have to arch your back to reach a tall desk or hunch over to work at a short desk, this will lead to serious long-term complications.
Standard Desk Height
The standard desk height in the USA is between 28 and 30 inches. This figure may vary based on which country you are in as the average person’s height ranges between different nations. These desks typically accommodate people between 5 ft 8 and 5 ft 10. If you are taller, you may need to choose a desk with adjustable height for tall people. Shorter people may need to opt for a short desk height or a desk built with short people in mind.
Desk Ergonomics: To Stand or Not To Stand?
One of the most challenging decisions to make when planning your office space is choosing between a sitting or standing desk. A sitting desk is the standard option, but there are many benefits to consider for standing desks.
How To Discover the Ideal Ergonomic Desk Height for You
When picking the ideal ergonomic desk for you, it’s essential to consider the comfort of all your body parts, not just the spine and neck. Below are the most important things to consider when evaluating desks.
Arms and Elbows
When considering desk height, the angle of your arms and elbows matters. You will likely be typing or writing at your desk for long hours throughout the working day, so it’s essential to reduce strain. Poor elbow and arm positioning can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, thoracic outlet syndrome, and other finger and elbow tensions.
Knees
Now, moving on to your lower body. Your knees, whether sitting or standing, should never be locked for too long. Locking your knees for too long will cause grinding in the knee joints, leading to complications and pains.
Feet
A footrest under your desk is ideal for taking some strain from the bottom of your feet—for both standing and sitting desks. At a stand-up desk, especially, you can experience fatigue or soreness in the feet from standing positions. Ensuring you can take some pressure from your feet, even at the correct desk height, helps ensure long-lasting comfort.
Eyes and Computer Visibility
When staring at a computer screen all day, your eyes need rest and support. Your computer screen should be no more than an arm’s length away from your face, and your adjustable desk should be set so your monitor height aligns with your eyes. You can use a monitor stand to ensure alignment if you don’t have an adjustable desk. You should also ensure the computer brightness is not too high, which can cause eye strain after extended periods.
5 Top Ergonomic Desks
Now that you know what you’re looking for, let’s explore the five top ergonomic desks!
- Santa Monica Rectangular Desk
- Ventura Electric Adjustable Height Desk
- Santa Monica Office Reception Desk
- Camel Double Pedestal Desk
- Bellagio Double Pedestal Desk
FAQ
Let’s discuss any lingering questions about the perfect ergonomic desk height.
How Do I Choose the Best Ergonomic Desk Height for Me?
You can go online and use a desk height calculator to determine the ideal desk height for your specific height. This will give you a starting point, allowing you to choose desks for your height range. Generally, most desks will be the right height for you if you are between 5 ft 4 and 5 ft 10.
How Do I Determine the Standard Desk Height?
The standard desk height differs between countries. However, in the US, desks are generally around 28–30 inches tall.
How Can I Sit at a Desk Most Ergonomically?
To sit at your desk ergonomically, ensure your monitor height aligns with your eye level and pay attention to any straining or bending in the neck. You should also ensure you can rest your arms comfortably to type, with your elbow at a 90-degree angle and your wrists flat.
Are Height-adjustable Desks a Good Idea?
Yes, height-adjustable desks are the perfect option for people of all sizes, ensuring your arms can rest on your desk comfortably, your feet still touch the ground, and your knees are at a comfortable angle.
Takeaway
When choosing a desk for your office space, it’s essential to consider that the average desk height won’t suit everyone. And your chair height should align with the desk you choose. By opting for adjustable desks with ergonomic design, you can ensure your employees work with the correct posture and prevent health complications.
To find adjustable desks and stylish ergonomic desk designs, browse our collection at Freedman’s Office Furniture. We have desks to suit contemporary and classic office designs, and to accommodate the comfort of everyone!