The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that the average worker sits down for 6.5 to 8 hours a day. This causes bad posture, which can result in back and neck pain, eye strain, and injuries from overuse. Fortunately, there is an increasingly popular solution: using an ergonomic stand monitor.
A monitor with ergonomic stand can change your computer screen's height, angle, and position. This guide will tell you why you need ergonomic monitor stands and how to choose the best one.
Benefits of Ergonomic Stand Monitor
Ergo computer monitor stands make your work environment more efficient and pleasant. In return, this offers several important benefits, such as:
Reduced Eye Strain
Eye strain occurs when your eyes get tired from intense use, such as staring at a computer screen for long periods. This can lead to discomfort and various vision problems, making it harder to work effectively.
An ergonomic computer monitor stand helps position your screen at the right height and distance, reducing the risk of common symptoms of eye strain, like:
- Blurred Vision: When your eyes are strained, focusing becomes difficult, making your vision appear blurry. This happens because your eye muscles are overworked and need rest.
- Dry Eyes: Prolonged screen time can reduce your blink rate, leading to less moisture on the surface of your eyes. This results in dryness and irritation.
- Headaches: Eye strain often causes headaches, particularly around the eyes and temples. This is due to the constant effort your eyes put into focusing on the screen.
- Increased Sensitivity to Light: Eye strain can make your eyes more sensitive to light, causing discomfort in bright environments. This happens because your eyes are already tired and struggle to adapt to changes in light.
Reduction of Repetitive Strain Injuries
Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) occur when repetitive movements or prolonged exertion strain muscles, tendons, and nerves. RSIs commonly affect wrists, hands, arms, neck, and shoulders.
An ergonomic monitor stand helps mitigate the risk of RSIs, like:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition affects the wrist and hand, causing numbness, tingling, and weakness. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, becomes compressed due to repetitive motions, like typing.
- Tendinitis: Tendinitis is inflammation or irritation of a tendon, commonly occurring in the wrist, elbow, or shoulder. It causes pain and tenderness around the affected area, making it difficult to perform tasks that involve the affected tendon.
- Tenosynovitis: Tenosynovitis is inflammation of the sheath surrounding a tendon, often seen in the wrist, hand, or fingers. It causes pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected joint, usually due to repetitive motions like typing or gripping.
Ease the Effects of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are conditions that affect the muscles, tendons, nerves, and other soft tissues due to repetitive tasks, awkward ergonomic typing position, or forceful exertions.
An ergonomic monitor stand can help alleviate the effects of MSDs, such as:
- Lower Back Pain: One of the most common MSDs, lower back pain can result from poor posture, heavy lifting, or prolonged sitting. It causes discomfort and stiffness, affecting mobility and productivity.
- Neck Strain: MSDs can lead to neck strain, characterized by pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion. Long periods of staring down at a screen or holding the neck in an awkward position are two things that can cause this.
- Shoulder Tension: MSDs often manifest as shoulder tension, causing pain and stiffness in the shoulder area. This can result from repetitive movements, such as typing or lifting, leading to muscle fatigue and discomfort.
- Joint Stiffness: Prolonged sitting or repetitive motions can lead to joint stiffness in various parts of the body, such as the hips, knees, and ankles. This can make movement uncomfortable and may contribute to the development of arthritis over time.
How to Find the Right Ergonomic Stand Monitor
Finding the right ergonomic stand for your monitor is important for comfort and health. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Determine Your Measurements
Before you search for the perfect ergonomic stand monitor, you must understand your physical measurements. This information will help you choose a monitor that is properly aligned with your proper computer posture.
To determine your measurements, you should:
- Measure Your Desk Height: Determine the height of your desk to ensure compatibility with the monitor stand's height adjustment range. This helps prevent any mismatch that could lead to discomfort or improper ergonomics.
- Assess Monitor Size: Measure the width of your monitor to ensure it fits securely on the stand's platform or mount. Choosing a stand that accommodates your monitor size prevents stability issues, correcting poor posture.
- Evaluate Desk Space: Consider the available space on your desk surface to determine whether a freestanding, desk-mounted, or wall-mounted monitor stand would be most suitable. This ensures optimal utilization of your workspace while maintaining ergonomic principles.
2. Choose Ergonomic Adjust-ability
A monitor that can be tilted, swiveled, and adjusted in height will allow you to find the perfect viewing angle. With that in mind, look for stands that offer:
- Tilt and Swivel Options: This customizes the viewing angle according to your preference and comfort. It even helps reduce glare and eye strain, especially when working for extended periods.
- Rotation Capability: Select a monitor stand with rotation capability if you frequently switch between landscape and portrait orientations. This feature enhances versatility and accommodates different tasks or content types with ease.
- Assess Depth Adjustment: Evaluate stands with depth adjustment options to ensure optimal positioning of the monitor relative to your seating position. This helps maintain a comfortable viewing distance.
3. Consider Cable Management Features
Cable management features in a monitor stand help keep your workspace organized by neatly routing cables and wires. This not only improves the aesthetics of your setup but also reduces the risk of tripping hazards and damage to cables.
When choosing an ergonomic stand monitor, consider these cable management features:
- Integrated Cable Channels: Look for a stand with integrated cable channels or clips that allow you to route cables along the stand's arms or base. This keeps cables out of sight and prevents them from tangling or becoming tangled.
- Cable Clips or Hooks: Some stands come with cable clips or hooks that allow you to secure cables along the stand's frame or underside. This helps prevent cables from hanging loosely and getting in the way of your workspace.
- Integrated USB Ports: USB ports give easy access to additional connectivity options, such as charging your devices or connecting peripherals. This eliminates the need to reach behind your computer and provides convenient access to USB ports directly from your desk.
4. Check Out the Design Aesthetics
While functionality should be your primary concern when choosing an ergonomic stand monitor, the design and aesthetics of the monitor can also play a role in your overall satisfaction.
That said, consider these things below:
- Match with Workspace: Look for a stand with a design that matches the aesthetic of your workspace, whether it's modern, minimalist, or traditional. This ensures a cohesive and visually pleasing look.
- Material Quality: Consider the materials used in the stand's construction, such as metal, plastic, or wood. Choose a material that not only looks good but is also durable and long-lasting.
- Color Compatibility: Pay attention to the color of the stand and how it coordinates with your desk, monitor, and other peripherals. Opt for a color that complements your existing setup or adds a pop of color if desired.
- Space-saving Design: If you have limited desk space, consider a stand with a space-saving design, such as a slim profile or integrated storage compartments. This allows you to maximize your workspace while still enjoying ergonomic benefits.
5. Prioritize VESA Compatibility
VESA compatibility refers to whether a monitor stand can be attached to your monitor using a standard mounting interface defined by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA). This compatibility is crucial when choosing an ergonomic stand monitor to ensure proper installation and stability.
To help you out, you should:
- Check Monitor's VESA Mounting Holes: Verify that your monitor has VESA mounting holes on the back, typically in a square or rectangular pattern, to ensure compatibility with VESA-compatible monitor stands.
- Confirm VESA Standard Size: Determine the VESA standard size of your monitor's mounting holes, such as 75x75mm or 100x100mm. This ensures compatibility with the stand's mounting plate or bracket.
- Consider VESA Adapter Plates: If your monitor does not have VESA mounting holes or if they are not compatible with the stand, consider purchasing VESA adapter plates or brackets. This enables compatibility and secure mounting.
6. Opt for Cost-Effective Options
While it's important to invest in a stand that meets your ergonomic needs, you don't want to overspend on unnecessary features. By prioritizing cost-effectiveness, you can find a stand that offers the best value for your budget without compromising on essential features.
When evaluating your options, follow these tips below:
- Set a Budget: Determine your budget for the ergonomic stand monitor to narrow down options and focus on models that offer the best value within your price range.
- Read Reviews: Look for reviews from other users to gauge the quality and performance of the stand before making a purchase. This helps ensure that you're investing in a cost-effective option that meets your expectations.
- Look for Warranty and Support: Check if the monitor stand comes with a warranty and reliable customer support to ensure peace of mind and assistance in case of any issues or concerns.
Best Ergonomic Stand Monitor in 2024
In 2024, the best ergonomic stand monitors focus on providing comfort and adjustability for users. Here are a few options that stand out:
1. Monoprice Workstream Single-Monitor Desk Mount
The Monoprice Workstream Single-Monitor Desk Mount is a versatile and affordable option for enhancing your workspace's ergonomics. It features smooth motion adjustments, allowing you to easily tilt, swivel, and rotate your monitor for optimal viewing angles.
Its sleek design and cable management system even help maintain a clutter-free workspace, promoting productivity and comfort.
- Mounting Type: Desk Mount
- Movement Type: Rotate, Swivel, Tilt, Articulating
- Maximum Compatible Size: 34 Inches
2. ErGear Triple Monitor Mount
For those who require multiple displays, the ErGear Triple Monitor Mount is a game-changer. This robust and adjustable stand can support up to three monitors, allowing you to expand your workspace and boost your productivity.
Also, the ErGear Triple Monitor Mount features a sleek, aluminum alloy construction that is both durable and visually appealing. The arms can be independently adjusted in terms of height, tilt, and swivel, ensuring that each of your displays is positioned exactly where you need it.
- Mounting Type: Table Mount
- Movement Type: Rotate, Swivel, Tilt, Articulating
- Minimum Compatible Size: 27 Inches
3. Huanuo Dual Monitor Stand HNDS6
This ergonomic stand monitor is designed to accommodate two displays, allowing you to maximize your workspace while maintaining a clean, organized appearance.
In addition to its ergonomic benefits, the Huanuo Dual Monitor Stand HNDS6 helps keep your desk organized with integrated cable management. This feature neatly routes cables, reducing clutter and creating a cleaner workspace.
Invest in Ergonomic Solutions, Get the Best Ergonomic Stand Monitor
Investing in an ergonomic stand monitor is a crucial step toward creating a healthier and more productive workspace. By selecting one, you not only improve your comfort and efficiency but also invest in your long-term health and productivity. So, make the smart choice for your workspace and enjoy the positive impact of ergonomic solutions.
Are you more informed about the ergonomic stand monitor now and know how to fix poor posture? You can learn about ergonomic technology by subscribing and leaving a comment below.
References:
https://www.anthrodesk.ca/blogs/anthrodesk/the-ultimate-guide-to-choosing-computer-monitor-stands
https://www.techradar.com/best/monitor-stands
