Monitor position is an important consideration when attempting to set up a workstation that will not result in a cumulative trauma injury. It sounds silly that your monitor’s positioning could hurt you but once you feel the cramping burning neck pain, shoulder pain and arm pain that can result from straining to view a misplaced monitor it won’t seem silly at all.

Since I first started practicing chiropractic in San Diego in 1993 I have been interested in ergonomics. Poorly thought out ergonomic settings are responsible for the pain that a large percentage of my patients suffer with.

The following guidelines will helpful when you are trying to find correct placement for your monitor.

1. Your monitor should be placed directly in front of you. Your keyboard should be directly in front of the monitor.
2. Your monitor height should be adjustable.
3. Your monitor should be approximately arms length away from your eyes.
4. Your eyes should be level with the top 1/3 of your monitor.
5. Use document holders to help reduce neck strain. The document holder should be placed as close to the monitor as possible and be turned toward the monitor about 15 degrees to help reduce rotation of the neck and eye strain.
6. Your monitor’s screen should be tilted 10 to 15 degrees downward to help reduce glare on the screen. This angle also helps obtain correct optometric angle.

These suggestions will create a healthier work environment for you. Remember that implementing just a few of these ideas will help reduce stress and strain and help prevent painful conditions like back pain, neck pain, headaches, etc.