If you end your workday with a stiff neck, sore wrists, or a dull ache in your lower back, youâre not alone. Weâve been conditioned to accept this discomfort as a "normal" part of desk work.
It is not normal. It's a sign that your workspace is working against you.
The problem isn't the 8-hour day; it's an environment that forces your body into unnatural positions. But the good news is that you don't need a $2,000 chair to fix it. You just need to understand one professional ergonomics secret: The 90/90/90 Rule.
What is the 90/90/90 Rule?
This simple framework is the foundation of all professional ergonomics. It dictates the ideal "neutral" position for your body to minimize strain.
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Ankles at 90°: Your feet should be flat on the floor (or a footrest).
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Knees at 90°: Your legs should be comfortably bent, with thighs parallel to the floor.
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Elbows at 90°: Your arms should rest naturally at your sides, with your forearms parallel to the floor.
This sounds simple, but look at your desk right now. Are you achieving this? Probably not. Let's fix the two biggest reasons why.
Problem 1: The "Laptop Hunch" (Fixing Your Screen)
The Problem: The most common ergonomic sin. To see your screen (either a monitor flat on the desk or a laptop), you are forced to crane your neck down. This "laptop hunch" puts immense strain on your cervical spine.
The Expert Solution: The top 1/3 of your screen must be at or slightly below your eye level. This forces your neck to stay in a neutral, upright position.
This is impossible if your monitor is sitting on the desk.
This is precisely why we engineered our Wooden Monitor Stands. They raise your screen to the optimal ergonomic height, instantly correcting your posture. For laptop users, a dedicated Laptop Stand combined with an external keyboard is the only way to achieve a pain-free setup.
Problem 2: The "Wrist Bend" (Fixing Your Keyboard)
The Problem: Look at your hands. To type on a modern keyboard (especially mechanical ones), do you have to bend your wrists upwards? This sharp angle compresses the nerves in your wrist, leading to fatigue and increasing the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
The Expert Solution: Your wrists should be neutral and straight, floating just above the keyboard. Your elbows should be at that 90-degree angle.
This is where a Wooden Palm Rest becomes essential. Itâs not just a "cushion." It's an ergonomic tool that bridges the gap between your desk and keyboard, allowing your wrists to rest in a perfectly neutral, straight line. Our solid walnut and oak rests provide firm, consistent support that soft foam can't match.
Conclusion: Build a Workspace That Serves You
You don't have to end your day in pain. By applying the 90/90/90 rule, you can move from a workspace that drains your energy to one that supports your health and focus.
It starts with two simple changes: get your screen to eye level and get your wrists straight.
Ready to build your pain-free, productive setup? Shop our Ergonomic Desk Collection and discover the difference that solid wood and smart design can make.
