Computers, Work Postures and Stress
This is the final installment in this series of blog posts. My next series will examine different job duties and how they lead to cumulative trauma disorders.
What are the Common Symptoms of Cumulative Trauma Disorders?
· Tightness, discomfort, stiffness, soreness or burning in the hands, wrists, fingers, forearms, or elbows
· Tingling, coldness, night pain or numbness in the hands, especially around the base of the thumb
· Clumsiness or loss of strength in the hands
· Pain in the neck, shoulders, wrists, hands or back that is associated with using the computer
How Can You Avoid Injuries Related to Reaching for the Mouse?
The following recommendations are applicable to both home office ergonomics as well as ergonomics in the office.
1) Placing the input device directly in your immediate reach zone offers natural comfort and maximum hand-eye coordination. The use of a platform for the mouse is preferable. Some models of mouse platforms attach directly to your chair.
2) Your chair should have arm rests that are adjustable.
3) Your wrist should be either in a neutral position or flexed slightly downward when operating both your mouse and your keyboard. For this reason, if you select a mouse platform that attaches to your chair, adjustability of the platform is of primary importance.
4) Consider using a high quality office chair with adjustable armrests and lumbar supports. It should also allow some degree of recline.
5) Make sure that the upper arm and elbow are as close to the body and as relaxed as possible for mouse use - avoid overreaching.
6) Hold the mouse lightly, don’t grip it hard or squeeze it. Place the pointing device where you don’t have to reach up or over very far to use it. The closer you can place it to your body the better.
These are just a few ideas that might help you to either get out of pain or be of use in your efforts to prevent the onset of cumulative trauma disorders. I hope that this information is helpful to you all. Remember - KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!
More Coming Soon
Dr. Jones
Economical Adjustable Mouse Platform
San Diego Chiropractic
Pain Relief San Diego Chiropractor
