BARBARA, arts, educational & cultural consultant: Work stations and work environments affect individuals differently. Variables include occupation, age, gender, physical conditions and physical limitations. "One size does not fit all."

That brings us to the question of the chair. The one you’re sitting in most of the day may be contributing to potential health problems. Besides optimal upper and lower back support, other things to consider include seat height, arm rests and maneuverability.

If your chair seems to be an improper match, you may request a more suitable one from your employer.

For home use, many ergonomically correct chairs are available at office supply stores and online. But I suggest you try some to ensure you get the one that fits your body type, height, weight, torso and leg length.

To stave off injury, also consider the height of your work surface and the position of your computer monitor, mouse and keyboard, and make the necessary adjustments.

In addition, I recommend stretching - something you can do anytime, anywhere. "Stretching is a wonderful way to relax," says Strong Women, Strong Bones author Miriam E. Nelson, “and it helps prevent injury and maintain flexibility. Furthermore, stretching helps reduce back pain ... and other aches and pains." Nelson says stretching is necessary after you strength-train or do aerobic exercise. But you can stretch as often as you please.

"A stretch is one of my favorite pick-me-ups when I’m working at my computer," says the author. "I take a two-minute stretch break every hour to remove the tension from my neck, back and shoulders. It’s a real revitalizer that makes me feel good all over."

As your fitness advocate, I also recommend 30 to 60 minutes of exercise, at least three days a week. Include weight-bearing exercise, aerobics and a stress-relieving or relaxation exercise like yoga in your routine.

People all over the world are affected by ergonomics. Your questions about the issue are part of a growing concern. In fact, ergonomics is big business: Nonprofit, government and private agencies, small businesses, corporations, insurers, legislators and unions have been addressing various aspects of this subject for many years to improve productivity by the safest means.

All the concern stems from scientific evidence showing that musculoskeletal disorders of the lower back and upper extremities can be attributed to particular jobs and working conditions including heavy lifting, repetitive and forceful motions, and stressful work environments.

Each year these disorders affect about 1 million workers and cost the nation between $45 billion and $54 billion in compensation expenditure, lost wages, and decreased productivity. But the problem can be reduced with well-designed intervention programs.

Lower back pain, tendonitis, nonspecific wrist complaints and carpal tunnel syndrome are among the disorders that have considerable social and economic impact, with back pain making up the overwhelming share of reported problems. Scientific evidence and industry data strongly indicate that properly implemented strategies to reduce the incidence, severity, and consequences of work-related musculoskeletal disorders can be effective.

Girlfriends, become an advocate for wellness and safety on the job. You’ll be part of a growing movement that will benefit the entire work culture. Posted February 05, 2003 10:42 AM