Have a happy ergonomic holiday

Here are some tips for ergonomic holiday-making:
Writing holiday cards
If you still like to give a personal touch to your holiday cards by writing a note or addressing the envelopes by hand, take these steps to avoid neck, back, wrist and hand pain:
• Sit so that your writing surface is 2- to 4-inches higher than your relaxed elbow level. If your table is too high, you may need to raise yourself by placing a cushion on your chair. If the table is too low, place books or paper reams to raise the writing level.
• Angle the papers toward you by placing them on an inclined surface such as a 2-inch binder laid on the table with the spine away from you. This will make it easy to see the papers without bending your neck too far.
• Consider using an ergonomic pen, which has a wider barrel than a standard pen and has a rubbery or cushiony grip. This can prevent writers’ cramp and other discomforts.
• Take breaks from the activity – get up and stretch and move around periodically.
Gift-wrapping
• Consider using gift bags that make the job easier and can be re-used.
If using wrapping paper:
• Ideally, use an open work surface that’s between hip and waist level such as a kitchen table or counter.
• Unrolling the paper from side to side rather than front to back can make cutting easier and decrease bending and reaching.
• Consider using a cutter or letter opener with a sharp, protected blade that slides to cut, rather than scissors that require opening and closing with your hand.
• If using scissors, consider using ergonomic scissors that are spring-loaded to open the handles, allowing you to simply squeeze the handles to cut.
• Use a stable tape dispenser, possibly even a pop-up type, to prevent awkward handling of the tape.
• If bending, bend from your knees and hips rather than from your waist.
• Take breaks – change positions and walk around.
Adapt these ideas to make other holiday activities safe and comfortable, and enjoy the holidays!
Nancy M. Lowe is a certified ergonomist, registered physical therapist and certified hand therapist. She has prevented and treated pain and injuries in the San Francisco Bay Area for more than 20 years. Contact her at [email protected].