Computer Use and Repetitive Stress Injuries

It's been the computer age for awhile now, and that's why words like "repetitive stress injury" and "carpal tunnel syndrome" are a part of our everyday lexicon now. Most families use a computer at least for some reason every day. This could be for work, for school homework, checking e-mail, surfing the Internet, instant messaging with friends or playing computer games. From the very young to the not so young person, people's lives are impacted by computers every day. And as a consequence, the occurrence of repetitive stress injuries caused by hours in front of those computer keyboards also has increased.

If you know you'll be spending time on a computer for work or play each day, there are some things you should know about carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive stress injuries caused by our extensive time in front of the computer screen. When we use a computer, especially the mouse, repetitively, we risk injuring the small tunnel that is formed by the bones and ligaments in your wrists. This tunnel serves as protection for the nerves that send messages between your brain and your hand. When this area is injured because of too much Internet surfing or shooting monsters in a video game, you can experience some level of pain, tingling and perhaps even numbness.

It's not likely we can give up our computer time altogether, but there are ways to help lessen your likelihood of experiencing the painful results of carpal tunnel syndrome. First, like your mom likely always said, sit up straight. Slouching or crouching over your computer's keyboard puts strain on your neck, shoulders and back. Strain is never a good thing. Force yourself to sit up straight and relax your muscles instead of being tense. Also sit with your feet on the floor, not curled up underneath you.

How many times have you heard someone pounding on their computer keyboard like they were mad at it? All that pounding isn't necessary. Most keyboards only require light touches to transfer your thoughts to the screen.

Taking frequent breaks from your computer is important. Get up, move around, stretch, rolls your shoulders. Not only does this help nip any repetitive stress injuries in the bud, but you're also helping to prevent blood clots in your legs and eye strain from staring at the bright computer screen too long.

If your job or schoolwork demands you spend a lot of time at the computer, do everything you can to protect your body. Think ergonomics. There are tons of companies that sell ergonomic keyboards, arm and keyboard trays, mice, chairs and even entire ergonomic workstations. It's worth some research and perhaps even some purchases to protect yourself. Think of it as preventive medicine. It's likely cheaper to purchase the products to protect yourself from repetitive stress injuries than it would be later (in time and money) if you push your body too far and cause it injury. Take care of yourself before the warning signs even start blinking.

About the Author:
Mike Serovey is the owner and webmaster for http://www.mikeserovey.net where you can submit your articles for free.