Apart from searching articles related to medical research, there are daily blog posts, entrecard drops, link referral, social networks,... innumerable sites, and innumerable tasks to perform....it's overwhelming and difficult to handle all in a day.
At the end of the day its not surprising to have back ache, shoulder pain, wrist pain, blurred vision, and in days to come suffer from problems related to circulation, respiration, digestion, bone (osteoarthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome) etc. etc., the list goes on...
Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) due to prolonged periods in poor position alters posture gradually until one begins to suffer all the time.
Ergonomic furniture and accessories do play a role in maintaining correct posture, relieving stress on muscles and joints, thereby avoiding more energy expenditure. American Chiropractic Association promoted May as 'Correct Posture Month'.
Certain precautions are needed while working on computer:
- For proper circulation in lower limbs, there should be two inches gap between seat edge and back of knees.
- Knees should be at 90 degrees angle with angled foot rest.
- Avoid bending of neck either forwards or backwards, by keeping top of screen at eye level.
- Keep mouse near to avoid shoulder and neck strain. Wrist rest helps in keeping it in neutral position.
- Frequent, short breaks to stretch your arms, hands, shoulders and neck .
- Headset or speakerphone to talk on phone and type on computer simultaneously, avoid cradling telephone between ear and shoulder.
- Elbows should be bent at 75 to 90 degrees while typing on the keyboard.
Fruits like pear, strawberries, green vegetables like spinach, carrots provide enough anti-oxidants and fish has poly unsaturated fatty acids to strengthen nerves of eyes.
There is a free simple reminder tool for prompting regular breaks and helps symptoms of RSI.
Physical activity goes a long way in avoiding obesity due to sitting jobs. Keep a check on your biochemical (blood lipid, blood sugar) profile.
Best of Health with Computers!
