Health considerations when using a computer

Health Considerations When using A Computer

In today’s era, we find ourselves stuck in front of a computer for as long as 8 hours or more a day. This drastically affects our health, even if we don’t realize it. Some of these health hazards include posture related problems, muscle and joint injuries, hands injuries, eyestrain and neck pain. You may not recognize it right away until you actually think about how your neck feels after you finish watching a movie on your computer or end a long hard day’s work.

There are a few ways to prevent these problems. This quick step-by-step guide will help you and your body when you work in front of your computer in the future.

First off, we look at the work station. Most of our posture related problems come from either a bad or faulty work station setup. Back, neck, shoulder and arm pains are usually an indication that something is wrong with your body posture and that the setup must be changed. For best results, make sure you use an adjustable desk to be able to position your monitor to be at the eyelevel or a little bit lower. Your keyboard positioning should so that both your elbows rest on either side of you. Your feet must be able to rest flat on the floor. Use a foot stool if your feet do not reach the floor. The chair self should have a proper back support so you can comfortably sit straight up and work.

Next, we look at overuse injuries and other issues. These problems usually occur when you strain certain muscles by forcing them into positions they were never intended to stay in. Usually occurring in your hand, CTS or better known as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, is one of the most common forms of overuse. Ensure that your arms are correctly positioned around the keyboard and mouse. They should be in line with your arms and your hands should rest on your work station without the excessive need to bend your wrists for long periods of time. Also, relax your arms as much as possible and type gently to avoid hand strain.

Next we focus on eye strain. This can lead to various health risks like general fatigue, increased nearsightedness. Symptoms are easily detectible for they affect your daily life. The symptoms include headaches, changes in your color perception, strain in eyes, blurry vision and dry feeling in the eyes. These are all caused as a result of overworking the eye muscles. However, this can be prevented by adjusting your monitor so it can be at level with your eyes. Also, ensure that your monitor is at least 18 to 30 inches away from you.

Just because everything today is pushing us into a fast paced lifestyle doesn’t always mean it is healthy. The best way to stay healthy is to avoid long-hour sessions in front of your computer. Remember to take breaks, and sit in a comfortable posture. Always look after the one thing that is most important to you--your health.

A Computer Guy

Health Considerations When using A Computer