ERGONOMICS FOR IT PROFESSIONALS
Computers have become an essential component in the modern world and health deconditioning occurs simultaneously with the modernization. People in the software profession and students spend most of the time on the internet. Prolonged postures, coupled with high levels of concentration and the occasional frustration of things going less than perfectly, can lead to physical problems.
Some of the resulting physical ailments are Carpal tunnel syndrome, Tennis elbow, Head ache, Computer vision syndrome and Cumulative trauma disorder (CTD) or Repetitive strain injury (RSI), Psychosomatic disorders. The symptoms of RSI are tightness, discomfort, stiffness, burning in the hands, wrist, fingers, forearms and elbows. Tingling, coldness and numbness of the hands with loss of strength and lack of co-ordination occur. There is pain in the upper back, shoulders and neck.
Here are some ergonomic tips for a safer, more comfortable computer session:
- Maintain sufficient interval between eye and the monitor.
- Maintain support at the low back.
- Keep hip and knee at right angle.
- 90-100o
- Keep your feet flat on the ground or use a foot rest.
- Position your keyboard at elbow level, with your upper arms relaxed at your sides.
- While typing, use a light touch and keep your wrists straight.
- When you're not typing, relax your arms and hands.
- Take a short break every 15 to 20 minutes.
- Give adequate rest to the eyes by closing the eyes and blinking frequently.
- Type with your hands and wrists floating above the keyboard, so that you can use your whole arm to reach for distant keys instead of stretching your fingers.
- These techniques help you to minimize the effect of computer related disorders. Thus keep body and mind sound to bring up a healthier life.
