As a DSE assessor and ergonomist, I’ve spent over 10 years helping people understand how the way they work can affect their comfort, health and wellbeing.

For me, Back Care Awareness Week is a great opportunity to highlight something I see regularly in my work: back discomfort shouldn’t simply be accepted as part of working life.

What I enjoy most about being an ergonomist is that no two assessments are the same. I take a holistic approach, looking beyond the desk, chair or equipment. I want to understand the person, their work, their environment and the challenges they are experiencing.

During an assessment, I’ll consider things such as how someone works, their posture and movement, the tasks they carry out, their workstation and equipment, their working environment and, importantly, what they are telling me about how they feel.

For me, it’s not about simply recommending a product. A new chair or piece of equipment may be part of the solution, but it isn’t always the answer. Sometimes the best solution is a simple adjustment, a change in working habits, better positioning, regular movement or a combination of different approaches.

I believe the best ergonomic advice is personalised, practical and sustainable, something that works for the individual rather than simply ticking a box.

After many years in the industry, what still gives me the most satisfaction is seeing the difference that this approach can make. Helping someone understand their body, their working environment and what they can change to feel more comfortable is incredibly rewarding.

This Back Care Awareness Week, my message is simple: don’t wait for pain before you start looking after your back.

Listen to your body, keep moving, and if something doesn’t feel right, get the right advice. Sometimes the smallest changes can make the biggest difference.