Being sedentary is not the only work hazard for those of us spending hours working at our computers. Musculoskeletal diseases involving muscle, tendon, ligament, and nervous system injuries are caused by repetitive tasks—like keyboard use. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is often given as an example of this kind of musculoskeletal injury but other aches and […]
Alternative seated positions
While the upright seated position (90-degree) seems to be the most commonly recommended (and used) position, it may not be the most healthy. Some very sophisticated studies using MRI imaging and stress measurement in the spine suggest that 135-degree thigh/torso position may be optimal for circulation, joint comfort, and weight distribution. In the declined position the […]
Working Positions: Upright Seated
Just because we work freelance from home does not mean that we should ignore ergonomics. Admittedly if you are working at the kitchen table it may be a bit more difficult to achieve, but it’s likely possible. You need not cringe and immediately respond that you can’t afford it—there are lots of simple, inexpensive […]
Occupational Hazards
Most of us who spend lots of hours at the computer as a way of earning our living likely don’t think of our jobs as having occupational hazards, but we really do have them. They may not be as blatantly obvious as in other occupations—e.g. construction, or farming. If you are not aware of hazards, […]
Stretch!
We all know we are sedentary—we must think about the health issues involved in our work. If we are being health conscious we take breaks, and perhaps, even go out for a brief walk; however, to really address some of the issues of our sedentary life, we need to look at areas of our bodies […]
Computer Vision Syndrome
Computers and electronic devices have become part of our lives. It’s not only with “mouse elbow,” wrist pain, and muscle tension that we see signs of this. Optometrists and ophthalmologists are seeing a collection of symptoms that they call computer vision syndrome (CVS) or sometimes digital eye strain. This constellation of symptoms includes tired eyes, dry […]
