The best work position is the next one...

If you experience pain while sitting at a desk, try changing positions. There is no wrong way to sit—not even if it doesn’t follow traditional “ergonomically correct” principles. Often, the pain itself is the problem, not the way you are sitting. There is also no single correct sitting position, and discomfort after long periods of inactivity is completely normal.

Variation is key. Just like clenching a fist for eight hours would cause discomfort, any fixed position can lead to pain over time. Frequent position changes are essential to reducing strain. The best work position is always the next one.

Are sit-stand desks the solution? not for everyone

Sit-stand desks have become a popular tool for adding variation, but research shows they don’t necessarily lead to significantly more position changes. Instead, they often replace one static posture (sitting) with another (standing). In some cases, standing for long periods can even increase pain, rather than relieve it.

Simply switching from sitting to standing does not guarantee fewer pain issues. While some employees benefit from sit-stand desks, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Less focus on ergonomics, more focus on you

The key is to find solutions that work for you. Research suggests that resting your forearms on the desk and using a comfortable mouse can help reduce arm, shoulder, and neck pain. However, the most important factor is still movement and variation.

There is no single “correct” work position that suits everyone. The best approach is to find what feels right for you, keep switching positions, and remember that ergonomic guidelines do not apply to everyone in the same way.