Ah the Humble Footrest.

Often times the footrest is seen as a standard tick the box ergonomic solution. Although footrests may not seem like an innovative ergonomic solution, when applied correctly they can provide a significant ergonomic benefit. Due to the relatively low cost and the amount of idle footrests likely sprinkled around your office floor, footrests are not given the credit they deserve. An ergonomic footrest has the potential to ease leg problems and reduce the risk of developing lower back issues. Without adequate support or activity, your feet impact your back, legs, circulation and other areas of the body. Problems in any of these areas can result in reduced productivity in the workplace which of course is to be avoided at all costs.

Take these points into consideration next time you feel uncomfortable or unsupported.

1) How to Use a Footrest

Using a footrest correctly will mean you'll be able to maintain correct posture with ease. When using a footrest think of these points to keep your posture in check and ensure you remain as productive as ever.

• Your hips should be slightly higher than your knees when sitting.
• Don’t keep your feet flat on the floor without changing position; move them around often.
• Use a footrest if there is pressure on the back of your legs or if your feet are not resting on the floor.
• A good footrest should be adjustable and should support the entire foot.

2) Why a Footrest can be of Value

Postural variation is key to remaining injury free and ensuring you remain productive. Sitting or lying for too long with no activity can lead to poor blood circulation. Making sure to keep your feet up on an ergonomic footrest greatly reduces your chances of developing circulatory conditions. You should change your sitting position as frequently as possible by adjusting your hips, moving your feet, lifting your arms and just slightly altering your posture continuously during your work day. You should also ensure to take frequent breaks every 45 minutes or so and have a good stretch.

3) Implications of Using a Footrest

Too long in an office environment with a chair and improperly positioned feet puts strain on your spine. With an ergonomic footrest, you can sit all the way back in the chair and avoid slouching. You'll also be able to maintain the correct ergonomic hip and knee angles. This will reduce pressure on your spine and back region. It is now widely accepted that the optimum seated position is to sit slightly reclined, preferably with a synchronised mechanism which allows you to move more freely while working at a computer. The use of an ergonomic footrest will significantly improve your contact with the back support. Sitting slightly reclined eases muscle activity around the spine, & reduces lumber disc pressure. All of these benefits are achieved by using of a high quality footrest. Sitting in a chair without a footrest that provides proper support causes poor circulation, back discomfort and overall fatigue.  By using an effective ergonomic footrest you can increase your comfort levels dramatically, improve productivity and greatly reduce the likelihood of work related injuries occurring further down the line.

4) Choosing the Best Footrest For You

At KOS Ergonomics most of our footrests feature continuously variable height and tilt angle adjustment. This means that these easily adjustable footrests can be perfectly adapted to any workplace situation. In some models, this is achieved by means of an apneumatic spring, making your footrest as convenient and easy to adjust as the familiar modern workplace chair. Other options include an active footrest that promotes movement which of course is excellent for circulation and maintaining comfort throughout your working day. Being proactive with ergonomics is vital to remain on top of your game and avoid injury.

For more information regarding workplace ergonomics or to arrange a Free Consultation with one of our Ergonomic Consultants at our Dublin City Centre Showroom on Clare Street (Near Merrion Square, opposite the National Art Gallery) get in touch on 01 6110200.