Posture and Subjective Evaluation at Flat and Slanted Desks

Back posture was photographed and back, neck, and upper arm electromyograms(EMGs) were recorded for six subjects during reading and writing at flat and slanted (12°, 24°) desk surfaces. In addition, the subjects rated fatigue and back discomfort. Sitting with a backpack, while leaning 45° forward, was used as a preliminary procedure to standardize the back discomfort ratings. Results indicated more erect posture and less back movement (reduced EMG) at the slanted surfaces, while slanting the desks also reduced fatigue and discomfort. The pattern in which the slanted surfaces were significantly better than the flat surface varied with each measurement technique.