The modern work environment—whether at home or in an office—often leads to one unfortunate outcome: joint pain. For adults 45 and older in Fort Myers, spending hours in front of a computer can silently contribute to chronic discomfort in the neck, shoulders, wrists, and lower back. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

At Gardner Orthopedics, patients frequently come in with pain that can be traced back to their workstation setup. The good news? With a few targeted ergonomic adjustments, many of these aches and strains can be significantly reduced—or avoided altogether.

“Your workspace shouldn’t be working against your body,” says Dr. Ron Gardner, board-certified orthopedic surgeon and founder of Gardner Orthopedics. “Simple ergonomic changes can reduce pressure on joints and support long-term musculoskeletal health.”

Whether you’re working from home in Gulf Harbour or clocking in daily at a downtown Fort Myers office, protecting your joints begins with understanding your environment.

What Exactly Is “Ergonomics,” and Why Does It Matter?

Ergonomics refers to designing your workspace so it fits your body—not the other way around. When a workspace is poorly designed, it leads to repetitive strain, poor posture, and joint overload, especially in the hands, wrists, back, neck, and knees.

Common consequences of poor ergonomics include:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome

  • Neck stiffness and headaches

  • Lower back pain

  • Shoulder tension and rotator cuff issues

  • Sciatica or hip tightness from prolonged sitting

According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, ergonomic injuries—also called musculoskeletal disorders—are among the most frequently reported causes of lost or restricted work time.¹

Five Ergonomic Fixes That Can Make a Big Difference

1. Raise Your Monitor to Eye Level
If you’re constantly looking down at your screen, your neck and upper back will bear the burden. Use a riser or adjustable arm to position the top of your monitor at or slightly below eye level.

2. Support Your Lower Back
An ergonomic chair with lumbar support is ideal. Alternatively, place a small pillow or lumbar roll behind your lower back. Your knees should be level with or just below your hips.

3. Keep Your Wrists Neutral
Your keyboard and mouse should be positioned so your wrists stay straight—not bent up or down. Consider a split keyboard or gel wrist rest if you’re typing for long periods.

4. Adjust Your Arm Angle
Your elbows should be close to your body and form an L-shape. If your chair’s arms don’t support this, raise or lower them—or use a desk chair with adjustable features.

5. Stand Up and Move Every 30–45 Minutes
Prolonged sitting compresses spinal discs and tightens hip flexors. Set reminders to stand, stretch, or walk a lap around your home or office regularly.

“Movement is medicine,” says Dr. Gardner. “Even just changing your position frequently throughout the day can reduce strain on the joints.”

Beyond the Basics: When Ergonomics Isn’t Enough

While better ergonomics can prevent many issues, existing joint pain may still require evaluation. At Gardner Orthopedics, patients with work-related discomfort receive comprehensive orthopedic assessments that look beyond symptoms to identify structural or functional imbalances.

Treatments may include:

  • Interventional pain management for inflammation and nerve irritation

  • Regenerative medicine to promote joint tissue repair

  • Physical therapy focused on posture correction and joint mobility

  • Platinum Physicals to detect musculoskeletal problems before they worsen

One patient, a 50-year-old financial planner in Fort Myers, had been experiencing wrist and shoulder pain for years. After a posture analysis and ergonomic coaching from the team at Gardner Orthopedics, combined with a course of targeted physical therapy, he was able to return to work pain-free within weeks.

Fort Myers’ Orthopedic Partner for the Modern Worker

Gardner Orthopedics understands that the typical patient today isn’t necessarily a weekend warrior or athlete—it’s the person working long hours at a desk, managing a business, or caring for family members. These activities require joint resilience and postural health, both of which are compromised by poor ergonomics.

“You don’t have to live with nagging joint pain,” Dr. Gardner emphasizes. “We treat the cause, not just the symptoms—and that often starts with how you move, sit, and work.”

Your Next Step: A Healthier, More Comfortable Workday

If joint pain is interfering with your work—or your life outside of it—schedule a consultation with Gardner Orthopedics. Whether it’s personalized ergonomic advice or a full orthopedic treatment plan, the goal is the same: helping you feel better, move better, and work smarter.

Clinic Overview

Gardner Orthopedics is a Fort Myers-based medical practice offering expert care in orthopedic surgery, interventional pain management, regenerative medicine, Platinum Physicals, foot and ankle care, and activation medical IVs. Led by Dr. Ron Gardner, the clinic emphasizes preventive wellness and long-term joint health.

📍 3033 Winkler Ave. Ste. 100, Fort Myers, FL 33916
📞 239-277-7070
🌐 www.gardnerorthopedics.com