Long hours at the computer require our bodies to be in a position
they just were not meant to be in, especially for several hours a day.
Unfortunately this is a reality for many people in their daily
occupation, and can lead to chronic neck, back and shoulder discomfort.
Though this position may be unavoidable, there are some ways to
minimize the discomfort and burden sitting at a computer all day places
on our bodies. Some of these tips include:
** Seating Posture**
Adjust your seating chair so that the lower back is properly supported
with the knees slightly higher than the hips, using a footrest if
necessary. Keep the back as straight as you can, shoulders relaxed, and
avoid slouching and rounding the shoulders. One way is to check in
with your posture every 15-30 minutes and make adjustments if necessary.
I know it's hard but don't worry, you can do it!
** Chair
Adjustment** The height of your chair should allow for using the
keyboard with wrists and forearms level with the desk. Elbows should be
at your side, forming an L shape at the elbow joint.
** Rest Your
Feet On Floor** Keep your feet flat on the floor or flat on a
footrest, with hips and knees in alignment. Avoid crossing the legs,
which can inhibit circulation to legs and hips, leading to further
problems.
**Save Your Eyes** It is best to keep the screen roughly
at eye level to prevent eye strain, neck pain, and shoulder fatigue.
Having the screen too high or low can cause you to bend the neck in
awkward positions and lead to discomfort by the end of the day.
**Keyboard**
Place the keyboard in front of you and leave a gap of about four to
five inches to allow for your wrists to rest. Keep your elbows directly
under your shoulders. A wrist rest can be helpful to keep the wrists at
the same level of the keys.
**Keep the mouse close** Keep the mouse as close to you as possible.
**Take
regular breaks** Frequent, short breaks are best. Walking a short
distance every hour helps prevent stiffness. The muscles and joints
will eventually feel pain if they are in the same position too long.
**Switch Positions Frequently** Switching positions frequently can help take stress off certain tissues.
**Stretch
and Exercise Regularly** Regular exercise really helps maintain
fluidity of the joints and free movement of the muscles. Core
strengthening exercises for the abdomen and thoracic area can help
maintain upright postures, preventing slouching that occurs when the
shoulders become tired and the day progresses.
Showing posts with label sitting at computer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sitting at computer. Show all posts
Monday, January 13, 2014
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