Ergonomics is the study of optimizing the interaction of human beings with their tools and environments to maximize safety, health and comfort. The principles of ergonomics are often applied to the workplace because many injuries and illnesses happen on the job.

Some workers develop poor posture or pain due to common activities in the workplace, such as sitting in office chairs, working at computers or standing for long periods of time. A variety of painful conditions occur as a result of work environments, such as back pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, tendinitis and possibly carpal tunnel syndrome.

Ergonomics is often considered during the design of tools and working environments. Among tools that are subject to ergonomic design are chairs, computer monitors, keyboards and household tools. Among environments subject to ergonomic design are offices, laboratories and industrial work spaces, such as factories.

Workers can improve their posture by standing up and moving, using ergonomic chairs and remembering proper posture while in motion. Ways to minimize eyestrain include blinking and yawning, resting the eyes and performing eye movement exercises. Other exercises aimed at preventing musculoskeletal problems include deep breathing, executive stretching and hand massages.

Posture and ergonomics also have many applications outside the workplace. These techniques are valuable treatments for people who would benefit from joint protection, such as those with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, or energy conservation, such as those with chronic fatigue syndrome, lupus or fibromyalgia. Occupational therapy and physical therapy can cover this type of instruction.