Do you feel like you’re constantly cramped and uncomfortable because your struggling to fit your legs under your desk while working?
This isn’t uncommon actually.
And the problem is bigger now that so many people are working from home in makeshift home offices.
There are a number of causes and a number of solutions that can help alleviate this problem and make it easier for you to work in comfort.
In this article, I’ll go over some easy ways to get more legroom when working long days at a small desk.
Real quick before we get too far into this: if you need more tech help or if you want to get more great ideas for your home office and connect with other remote workers join my free private Facebook group, Home Office Hacks here.
What causes the problem with no space for your legs under your desk?
If you’re like me, you’ve been working from home for a while now. On top of everything else that’s been going on, working from a hobbled together home office you now you find yourself struggling to fit your legs under your desk.
It can be uncomfortable to always be sitting in an awkward position all day… how you are you supposed to get work done like that?!?
I know, I’ve been there there too. But don’t worry, I’ve gathered some tips from ergonomics experts on how to adjust the things around you so that your legs have more room while still keeping your workspace organized and efficient.
There are a few main causes of not being able to fit your legs under your desk:
- Desk height: If your desk is too high, your legs may not be able to fit comfortably under it. This can be especially problematic if you are taller than average.
- Chair height: If your chair is too low, it may be difficult to get your legs under the desk, even if the desk itself is at a suitable height.
- Desk width: If your desk is too narrow, it may be difficult to fit your legs under it, even if the desk and chair are at the correct height.
- Body size: Your own body size can also be a factor. If you are larger or have longer legs, you may have more difficulty fitting under a standard-sized desk and chair.
Consequences of not being able to fit legs under a desk, including discomfort and potential health issues
If you are unable to fit your legs comfortably under your desk, you are likely going to experience discomfort and potentially even health issues. Here are some possible consequences of not being able to fit your legs under a desk:
- Discomfort: If you are unable to position your legs comfortably under your desk, you may experience discomfort in your legs, back, and other areas of your body. This can make it difficult to concentrate on your work and can even lead to physical pain.
- Poor posture: If you are unable to sit with your feet flat on the floor or on a footrest, you may adopt a poor sitting posture. This can lead to discomfort and strain on your neck, back, and shoulders, and can even cause long-term health problems such as poor circulation, muscle fatigue, and back pain.
- Reduced productivity: If you are constantly shifting around or experiencing discomfort while working, your productivity may suffer. This can lead to decreased efficiency and may even affect your overall job performance.
It’s important to address any issues with not being able to fit your legs under your desk in order to avoid these potential consequences and maintain a comfortable and healthy work environment.
Solutions for when you can’t fit your legs under your desk
If you are having difficulty fitting your legs under your desk, there are a few solutions you can try to address the problem:
- Adjust the height of the desk or chair: One of the most effective solutions is to adjust the height of your desk or chair to a more suitable level. If your desk is too high, you can try lowering it using desk risers or blocks. If your chair is too low, you can try using a seat cushion to raise the height or replacing the chair with one that is more suitable.
- Use a footrest: If your desk and chair are already at the correct height, but you are still unable to fit your legs under the desk, you can try using a footrest to elevate your feet and improve your posture. There are several different types of footrests available, including adjustable models that allow you to find the perfect height and angle for your needs.
- Use an extended keyboard tray: Another option is to use an extended keyboard tray. This can help to bring the keyboard and mouse closer to you, allowing you to sit with your feet flat on the floor and maintain good posture.
- Find a new desk or chair with a more suitable height: If adjusting the height of your current furniture or using a footrest or extended keyboard tray isn’t an option, you may need to consider finding a new desk or chair with a more suitable height. When shopping for new furniture, be sure to measure the height of your desk and chair and try out different options to ensure that they are comfortable and allow you to sit with good posture.
The correct, ergonomic sitting posture while seated working at a desk
Maintaining the correct, ergonomic sitting posture while working at a desk is essential for comfort and to prevent potential health issues. Here are some basic guidelines for you to follow so your legs will fit under the desk and you’ll be seated in a proper ergonomic position while working.
- Feet should be flat on the floor or on a footrest to help maintain good posture and reduce strain on your legs and back.
- Knees should be bent at a 90-degree angle to help reduce pressure on your lower back and improve circulation in your legs.
- Thighs should be parallel to the floor to help maintain good posture and reduce strain on your lower back and hips.
- Lower back should be supported by the backrest of the chair to help reduce pressure on your spine and improve posture.
- Shoulders should be relaxed and not hunched forward to help prevent muscle fatigue and improve circulation.
- Elbows should be bent at a 90-110 degree angle and the forearms should be parallel to the floor to help reduce strain on your wrists and arms.
- Wrists should be straight and the keyboard should be at or slightly below elbow level to help reduce strain on your wrists and arms.
- Monitor should be at eye level to reduce strain on the neck and upper back and help you maintain good posture.
Next Steps
Want to join others who are creating the most amazing home offices and get more tips, tricks and hacks on how to make your home office the best it can be?
Join my brand new free private Facebook group, Home Office Hacks to connect with other home office hackers to make your space the best!
