Awkward Postures

Posture is the position a body assumes and is different when a person is at rest or while performing certain tasks and activities. Posture affects all of the muscle groups that are active during physical activity.

Neutral posture refers to the resting position of each joint. In neutral posture, there is the least tension or pressure on the nerves, tendons, muscles, and bones. Muscles are neither contracted nor stretched, and they can develop maximum force most efficiently in this position.

Awkward posture refers to a position of the body that deviates significantly from the neutral position while job tasks are being performed. Awkward posture is associated with an increased risk of injury. The more the posture deviates from the neutral position, the greater the risk of injury. Awkward posture also makes work more physically demanding. It increases the exertion required from the smaller muscle groups and prevents the larger muscle groups from performing at their maximum efficiencies. Increased exertion leads to muscle and tendon fatigue and strain. If a worker continues to use the awkward posture, the stress on the muscles and tendons can cause irritation and inflammation, which in turn may increase pressure on nerves and blood vessels.

Awkward postures are often caused by poorly designed or arranged workstations, tools, and equipment, as well as poor work practices. Awkward postures occur when the work space is too high, too low, or too far away. They typically include repeated or prolonged reaching, twisting, bending, kneeling, and squatting. The effects of awkward posture are increased if the work task involves repetitive motions or forceful exertion. A general recommendation to lower risk is to limit time spent in awkward postures to two hours total per shift.

Here are a few tips to lower the risk of injury from awkward postures:

• For lower-level work, use a stool.
• Use tools that have longer handles.
• For higher-level work, use rolling stairs or an elevated work platform.
• Raise, tilt, or lower work for better access.
• Switch between kneeling, bending, squatting, and sitting.
• Only place infrequently used items in overhead storage.

To learn more about Labor & Industry Ergonomics visit our Labor & Industry Ergonomics Online Training web page.