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Ergonomics. What It Is and Why It Matters

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Occupational Health Coordinator, Trey Fox, works with employee on proper ergonomics at a workstation
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The Makovicka Difference

We are leaders in our profession, locally owned and operated by physical therapists who forge relationships with patients, and advocate for their care. All of our clinics have board-certified specialists on staff, meaning you get the highest level of care to maximize your recovery, and get you back to your game. We will listen, evaluate your symptoms, and create a personalized physical therapy program to meet your needs and improve your function, strength, and mobility.

What is Ergonomics?

Ergonomics is the science of designing and arranging workspaces, tools, and daily tasks to fit the people who use them. Instead of forcing people to adapt to poorly designed environments, ergonomics adapts the environment to the individual. The goal is simple: reduce strain, discomfort, and injury while improving comfort, safety, and efficiency.

If you’ve ever walked away from your desk with a stiff neck, a sore back, or tingling fingers, chances are your workspace isn’t ergonomically set up. Over time, poor ergonomics can contribute to chronic pain, lost productivity, and workplace injuries. That’s why it’s essential for both individuals and businesses in Lincoln to take ergonomics seriously—whether at home, in the office, or in industrial settings.

How Makovicka Physical Therapy Can Help Lincoln Companies and Their Employees

At Makovicka Physical Therapy, our occupational health center in Lincoln at the University Place clinic offers specialized services designed to keep workers safe, healthy, and productive. Our team of licensed physical and occupational health therapists provides tailored support for businesses and employees, including:

  • Workspace evaluation: Designing and arranging work areas to reduce strain and injury.

  • Training: Teaching proper body mechanics and posture habits to prevent injuries.

  • Equipment recommendations: Identifying tools, ergonomic equipment, or task modifications to improve comfort.

  • Job-specific conditioning: Developing strength and flexibility programs to keep workers pain-free.

  • Productivity improvement: Enhancing both comfort and efficiency in office and industrial environments.

We partner with businesses across Lincoln to integrate ergonomics into daily operations. When employees feel better, they perform better—and that benefits everyone.

Occupational Health Coordinator, Trey Fox, works with employee on proper ergonomics at a workstationFour Simple Guidelines to Optimize Your Workspace

You don’t have to overhaul your office overnight. Small, practical changes make a big difference. Here are a few ergonomic tips from our occupational health experts:

Chair Setup

  • Adjust the height so your feet rest flat on the floor or on a footrest—never dangle.

  • Keep knees level with or just below your hips.

  • Sit fully back in the chair with lumbar support.

  • Leave a 2–3 inch gap between the seat edge and the back of your knees to avoid circulation issues.

Computer Monitor Position

  • Place your monitor at eye level, about 20–30 inches from your face.

  • The top of the screen should be at or slightly below eye level.

  • Use a riser if needed and reduce glare by adjusting lighting or screen angle.

Desk Setup

  • Keep hands just below elbow height when typing.

  • Consider a sit-to-stand desk to alternate positions and reduce static sitting.

  • Avoid slouching—poor posture is strongly linked to neck and back pain.

Move More Throughout the Day

  • Stand up and move every 60 minutes, even if just for 30 seconds.

  • Try simple stretches: neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, wrist circles.

  • Movement improves blood flow, reduces fatigue, and increases mental clarity.

Why Ergonomics Matters for Businesses

For employers, ergonomics isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting the workforce and the bottom line. Musculoskeletal injuries are one of the leading causes of missed workdays in the U.S. Investing in ergonomic assessments and workplace training through a trusted occupational health center can lower injury rates, improve employee morale, and reduce healthcare costs.

When businesses in Lincoln work with Makovicka Physical Therapy, they’re not just checking a compliance box—they’re actively protecting their most valuable resource: their people.

Chris Cameron, PT, DPT, OCS

At Makovicka Physical Therapy, we combine expert knowledge in physical therapy and occupational health to create healthier work environments across Lincoln and beyond. Whether you’re an individual struggling with discomfort at your desk or an employer committed to keeping your workforce strong, our occupational health center is here to help.

Makovicka Physical Therapy’s therapists are recognized leaders in the industry. Chris Cameron, PT, DPT, board-certified clinical orthopaedic specialist and director of Makovicka PT’s occupational Health program was recognized with the prestigious National Safety Council Rising Star of Safety Award in 2022. Cameron serves on the Board of Directors for Workers Compensation Association of Nebraska.

Ready to improve your workspace and health? Contact Makovicka Physical Therapy’s Occupational Health Center in Lincoln today.

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