Unhealthy postures are often held for considerable periods of time in the lying, sitting, standing and walking positions. These postures can cramp muscles, strain nerves, and block blood circulation. They may also affect respiration and spiral column alignment. In particular, habitual, injurious postures and movements in the work-place can induce fatigue and consequently affect quality and productivity of work and may increase risk of accidents.
In the work place, absence of ergonomic designs for equipment, tools, platforms or seats causes undesirable positions for the employee. Absence of procedures to change position frequently through changes in tasks, and absence of exercice breaks, are common.