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Many times you cannot control your work environment, but there are several small ways you can add comfort to your work space. Here are five tips for creating an ergonomic and productive workstation.

Customize your chair. A properly adjusted chair will help support good posture and create more comfortable seating. First, correct the height of your chair so that your feet rest firmly on the floor, or use a foot rest for additional height if needed. The backrest of your chair should be adjusted next. Raise or lower it to best fit the shape of your back. Additional lumbar support can be added if your chair does not properly support your lower back. Lastly, lower the arm rests to allow relaxed, free movement of your arms while typing.

Reposition your monitor. The best position for your monitor is directly in front of you, at eye level. If your work surface is too low, a monitor riser can raise your monitor to a better position.

Utilize a document holder. Looking down to read from a notepad while typing causes soreness in the neck and shoulders. Using a holder for your notepad or document can eliminate this pain. This little tool can also significantly raise your productivity.

Use a phone headset. If you ever cradle the phone between your shoulder and ear in order to use your hands while talking, consider using a headset. A headset for your phone will reduce strain on your shoulders, add comfort to your workstation, and increase your productivity.

Adjust your keyboard. Your keyboard should rest just below the height of your elbow, sloping slightly downward, away from your body. In this position your hands and wrists can remain relaxed even when reaching for the top keys. Using an adjustable keyboard tray to modify your keyboard position will reduce discomfort and maximize your productivity.