Poor Lighting can cause eye strain, headaches, neck pain, lower back pain and arm pain. 

When lights are either not bright enough or poorly placed as to create glare off your screen or reference documents the tendency is for us to compensate for our lack of vision by leaning forward.  By leaning forward we stress our lower backs, necks and put our shoulders, elbows and wrists in a cramped position.  It doesn't take long for this kind of stress to cause pain and stiffness in our joints.  Inadequate or poorly placed lighting also causes eye strain which not only causes headaches but in the long run can damage our eyes.

There are some simple rules for proper lighting.

1)  Your lights should NOT be in front of your work area.

2)  Lights should be bright enough to allow you to comfortably see your work.

3)  Ideal lighting is diffused light that comes from above, behind and from the sides of your work area.

4)  Use a glare reduction screen on your monitor if necessary.

 Ideal lighting allows you to sit comfortably in your chair without wrenching your neck and upper back in order to see your computer.  Using an Ergo Nav also helps support proper posture.  Order Your Ergo Nav here.