Computer Fatigue: Posture, Force & Repetition
In the past I have written many ergonomic articles that harp on the importance of posture in the development of repetitive stress injuries (cumulative trauma disorders).
Most cases of repetitive stress syndrome involve the neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand. Collectively this region is referred to as the upper extremity. Depending on the type of work you do, different portions of the upper extremity can be involved in your group of symptoms.
There is no list that links the type of job that you perform with a specific set of injuries that will develop as a result of that exposure. That being said, there are some jobs that are notorious for causing specific repetitive stress syndrome type symptoms - keyboard operators and carpal tunnel syndrome and construction workers and shoulder tendonitis come to mind as typical cause and effect examples.
Almost all types of repetitive stress involve some combination of postural stress, excessive force and repetitive motion.
Jobs that require people to either assume prolonged fixed positions (computer workers) or awkward positions (auto mechanics) generate significant amounts of biomechanical stress to the joints and soft tissues of the upper extremities. Usually postural stress results from overloading of specific muscle groups, uneven weight loading of joints or by assuming positions that require static muscular contractions to limit joint motion in a specific area of the body.
Muscular force without adequate recovery time is another major contributor in the development of repetitive stress injuries. Some jobs require prolonged contraction of certain muscle groups, which reduces blood circulation resulting in fatigue. Muscles do not work efficiently under these conditions and without adequate recovery time will result in injury.
Highly repetitious movements of specific joints also contribute to repetitive stress syndrome. High frequency movements demand faster and stronger contractions of the muscles. Joints and muscles that are required to work in these conditions require more recovery time. Without adequate recovery time injury to the joints, muscle and tendons occur.
All of the factors listed above have to be taken into consideration when designing a work area and work duties. Taking frequent breaks, rotating job duties and getting much needed rest will all help in keeping you healthier and more productive through the course of your work life.
Here’s To Your Health
Dr. Jones
Economical Adjustable Mouse Platform
San Diego Chiropractic
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