Fatigue affects many of us at some point during our lives. It is slightly different to being ‘tired’ which all of us feel on a regular basis depending on what’s going on. Fatigue is more of a slow-developing onset of chronic tiredness that can drain your energy over long periods.
What are the signs of fatigue?
The most common signs of fatigue are:
- Feeling like you have less energy than you normally do
- Getting easily irritated
- Being forgetful
- Feeling faint
- Feeling disconnected from conversations
- Apathy
- Feeling tired but unable to sleep
- Body weightedness / feeling heavy.
What’s the difference between fatigue and chronic fatigue?
The term ‘chronic’ means ongoing or prolonged. For example, if you have chronic pain, this would be defined as pain that is longstanding. Chronic fatigue is a recognized syndrome but one that is not fully understood by healthcare professionals.
Symptoms of chronic fatigue include:
- Joint and muscle pain
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Vertigo
- Headaches
- Excessive sleep or insomnia
- Cognitive impairment
- Memory issues
- Sensitivity to stimuli such as noise
- Immunity problems
The exact cause of chronic fatigue is unknown. Some hypothesize that it could be a long symptom of a virus. For example, some people who have contracted Covid 19 have gone on to develop chronic fatigue syndrome. In other cases, it is thought that chronic fatigue is a psychological condition, or a physical condition made worse by a psychological component.
Research into chronic fatigue is ongoing. But what we do know is that whether you have generalised fatigue or chronic fatigue, ergonomic furniture can make a difference.
Ergonomic furniture for fatigue
You might experience normal levels of fatigue if you:
- Have experienced a difficult life situation such as a breakup or a job change
- Have recently been sick with a virus or chronic pain problem
- Have had a baby in the last 12 months
- Have felt overworked or just been promoted
Fatigue in the workplace can lead to decreased productivity, depression and poor work performance. These work performance issues can lead to disciplinary procedures or even job loss. In some cases, fatigue can even make you too sick to work at all.
So, it’s important you do things to help yourself if you think you are suffering from fatigue.
Firstly, you need ergonomic furniture in the office and at home. Ergonomic furniture is designed with your body in mind. Sitting up properly, in a good posture, can reduce the pressure on your spine and muscles, which in turn reduces the onset of fatigue. Another example is having a suitable headrest. If your head is properly rested, you are less likely to be straining your head forward, putting more pressure on your spine and shoulders. You can also benefit from a range of anti-fatigue accessories such as a foot mat. A foot mat stops your body from getting tired too quickly and allows you to sit and stand comfortably while working.
Exercise for Fatigue
While exercise might be the last thing on your mind when fatigued, it can actually really help to pull you out of that tired funk. Sitting for long periods can put your body into sleep mode. By working out, you can remind your body that it is daytime and wake it up a bit. A desk bike is the perfect way to do this. A desk bike sits underneath your desk, discreetly and stylishly, allowing you to exercise your lower body as you work. Getting your blood pumping and heart rate up during a zoom meeting could make you feel more energised, focused and productive.
Active seating is another good option for those suffering with fatigue. Active seating encourages you to move around and remain active at your desk.
Of course, in your spare time you should also try to exercise outside. Fresh air can also help to wake you up and ensure you’re ready for your working day.
Check out our full range of active seating and desk bikes here.
Got questions? Our helpful staff are here to help. If you have any questions about how ergonomic furniture can help to reduce fatigue, we are more than happy to point you in the right direction.
