How Ergonomics Affects Productivity

January 23, 2026

How Poor Ergonomics Reduces Your Productivity

picture of correct sitting posture Poor sitting posture reduces productivity, worsens posture, and causes musculoskeletal symptoms (MSS).

In one study, 67% of students had at least one musculoskeletal symptom. Research also reports a 30% to 66% drop in productivity due to poor ergonomics and incorrect sitting posture. And the best part is: it’s not that hard to fix.

Place your feet flat on the floor, and keep your knees at roughly a 90–110° angle. Your elbows should be around 90°, with your shoulders relaxed. The top edge of your monitor should be roughly at eye level, because your gaze naturally points slightly downward. There are online calculators to fine-tune the ideal desk and chair height.

It also helps to add simple exercises: chin tucks, shoulder blade squeezes, chest stretches, gentle standing back extensions, shoulder circles, and neck rotations. Even better: combine this with stretching, regular exercise, and frequent breaks.

Fixing your ergonomics is an easy way to improve both productivity and health.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/305853040_Knowledge_and_Practice_of_Laptop_Ergonomics_and_Prevalence_of_Musculoskeletal_Symptoms_among_University_Students https://elitespinecentres.com/blog/how-posture-affects-productivity-the-hidden-link-to-workplace-success/ https://purecalculators.com/ru/desk-height-calculator