Back Pain When You're Taller Than 1.80 m: 5 Kitchen Tips

Short answer: the main cause of back pain in cooks taller than 1.80 m is a worktop that's too low. You end up hunched over in the Quasimodo posture. Bring your work surface to about 12 cm below your elbow, and also look at your layout, shoes and posture.

1. Set up your station for your height

Keep what you use most, such as spices, oil and tools, between hip and chest height. You'll bend and reach less. If there's a kitchen island or a higher counter, use it for cutting and prep.

2. Choose utensils with long, good handles

Spoons, spatulas and tongs with long handles keep you away from the heat and stop you leaning over the pans. A sharp, well-balanced knife takes less force and spares your wrists and shoulders.

3. Wear good shoes and stand on an anti-fatigue mat

A hard kitchen floor strains your feet, knees and back. Choose non-slip work shoes with cushioning and support. Put an anti-fatigue mat where you stand longest, like by the stove and the sink.

4. Mind your posture and movement

Bend your knees, not your back. Turn with your whole body instead of twisting at the waist. Switch tasks and stretch briefly in between, especially your neck and shoulders. Catch yourself hanging over the cutting board like Quasimodo? Then your work surface is too low.

5. Bring your cutting board to the right height

The biggest gain is working height. You cut for hours a day, and at an 85 cm worktop you're hunched over if you're taller than 1.80 m. With the ErgoCutter you lift your GastroNorm board to your height, in 10 positions from 6.5 to 44 cm. You work upright and your back and neck get a rest.

Please note: these tips don't replace medical advice. If complaints persist, see your doctor or physiotherapist.