The Essentials #11: Essential Chiropractic Recommennds Standing Desks – Why Your Workspace Matters

Many of us in The Hague spend hours each day sitting—whether it’s at the office, working from home, or studying. While sitting isn’t harmful in itself, long stretches without movement can put a lot of strain on your spine, shoulders, and nervous system. That’s why more and more people are turning to standing desks as part of a healthier workspace setup.

At Essential Chiropractic, we see how small lifestyle changes can make a big difference to your posture, energy, and overall wellness. A standing desk is one of those changes.

Why a Standing Desk Helps Your Spine

Your spine is designed for movement. When you sit for too long:

Your posture often shifts forward, putting strain on your neck and shoulders.

Your lower back muscles tighten and weaken.

Circulation slows, leaving you feeling stiff and fatigued.

A standing desk encourages more natural posture, helps you engage your core muscles, and makes it easier to move during the day. Many people also report better focus and energy when they alternate between sitting and standing.

Choosing a Standing Desk in the Netherlands

There are plenty of options available, whether you want to upgrade your home office or improve your work setup:

Fully Electric Desks – Brands like IKEA (Bekant or Idasen) or Steelcase offer adjustable electric desks that let you easily change height with the push of a button.

Desk Converters – If you don’t want to replace your whole desk, converters like UpDesk Pro or FlexiSpot sit on top of your existing table and adjust for standing.

The most important feature is adjustability—you want to move easily between sitting and standing, not just replace sitting with more standing.

Tips for Setting Up Your Standing Desk

A good standing desk setup matters just as much as the desk itself. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Screen Height – Your monitor should be at eye level, so you don’t crane your neck up or down.

Keyboard & Elbows – Keep elbows close to your body at a 90-degree angle, with wrists relaxed.

Feet – Stand evenly on both feet. Consider a small anti-fatigue mat for comfort.

Shoes – Supportive footwear (or barefoot shoes if you’re at home) help keep your posture balanced.

Movement – Don’t just lock into standing all day. Alternate between sitting and standing every 30–60 minutes. Even small movements, like shifting weight or stretching, make a big difference.

Creating a Healthier Workspace

Your workspace has a huge impact on how your body feels at the end of the day. A standing desk isn’t just about being trendy—it’s about supporting your spine, nervous system, and overall health.

At Essential Chiropractic, we encourage our patients to combine chiropractic care with small, daily lifestyle choices that keep the body moving and adaptable. A well-set-up standing desk is a simple but powerful step in the right direction.