Appendix A
Prudent Practices
A
Prevention
The most effective way to deal with computer-related injuries is to
prevent them from happening. It makes good sense to examine your
work area and make yourself more comfortable and thus less likely to
suffer injury. Some changes, such as a correct chair, proper lighting,
suitable elevations, and the practice of easy keyboard- and mouse-
maneuvers, can be implemented at little or no expense.
Nothing contained in this user’s guide is intended to be construed as
medical advice.
To evaluate your work space, divide your setup into three main catego-
ries: the seating arrangement (your chair and desk), the computer
setup (your display, input devices, and other hardware), and finally,
environmental conditions (such as lighting and noise).
As you consider your office arrangement, remember that making all
the components work together is the key to preventing or lessening
computer-related injury.
Arm rests should be high enough to support your forearms but not so
high as to raise your shoulders. Arm rests should also be directly
under your arms and shouldn't bump against your work surface as you
move close to it.
When you're using the keyboard, your forearms and wrists should
form a straight line, and your fingers should adopt a comfortable, nat-
ural curve downward. As you type, don't apply too much pressure on
the keys. Take frequent, short breaks. At least once an hour, stop what
you're doing and get up and stretch your body, arms, and legs. To give
your eyes a rest, look away from the screen every five minutes or so
and stare into the distance. And of course, don't overwork or work
when you're in pain.
