Computer Ergonomics to prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Ergonomics is one of the first things users address when confronted with a RSI such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. It is really important to setup your computer workstation properly.  Improperly setup computer desks cause extra strain on your hands, wrists, back, and body.

The most important aspects are:

Seating

Buy a sturdy and adjustable Computer Chair that fits you properly.  You may need to visit a specialty office store or ergonomic office products company to find suitable products. The chair needs to height adjustments, depth adjustment, and lumbar support. The Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturer’s Association has Chair fit guidelines.

Workstation

Your work area must properly fit your body. BUY a new desk if need to. The work surface must be at the correct height.  Keyboard and Mice should be on an adjustable height platform, no two people are the same size! Your elbows should never be higher than your keyboard, but be at seated elbow height. Adjustable keyboard trays can help.

Mice should be close to your body, not out to the side or high on your desk. Wrist, hand, and forearm should form a straight line. Monitors need to be positioned at eye level and lower using stands or phone books.  Also consider a sit to stand Workstation that can force you to change positions.

Input Devices

Setting up or upgrading your ergonomic input devices and  Ergonomic Keyboard to those from vendors like Kensington or Kinesis or Kinesis Freestyle. The mouse should your hand, use smaller travel mice for smaller hands. Consider multiple input devices and swapping them every couple hours.  An automatic mouse clicker also helps.

Work Routine

Taking Breaks is incredibly important. People need to break up repetitious work like typing or mousing by getting up and stretching every 15 minutes or so

Voice Recognition software reduces your hands usage and hence speeds your recovery.

Here are some site with useful information. PRINT OUT the information you need. Do not use your computer more than necessary.

Office-Ergo.com
Cornell ergo Tips
Humanics-es – Rethinking work ergonomics
Typing Injuiry FAQ
UCLA Ergonomics

Remember that just setting up your workstation correctly will not result in instant healing from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. You have been injured and will probably need months to heal.

Related posts:

1. Computer Chair Ergonomics
2. Ergonomic Computer Chair
3. Road to recovery from Carpal Tunnel, Hand Pain, RSI
4. Ergonomic Computer Input Devices for Wrist Pain – Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
5. Ergonomic Computer Workstations – Sit to Stand Workstation

Posted on September 8th, 2008
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