Making Your Computer Work for You
Computers are everywhere. More and more people sit at computers for longer periods of time. This appendix explains how to set up your computer to fit your physical needs. This information is based on ergonomics — the science of making the workplace fit the needs of the worker.
Some nerve, tendon, and muscle disorders (musculoskeletal disorders) may be associated with repetitive activities, improper work environments, and incorrect work habits. Examples of musculoskeletal disorders that may be associated with certain forms of repetitive activities include: carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, tenosynovitis, de Quervain’s tenosynovitis, and trigger finger, as well as other nerve, tendon, and muscle disorders.
Note Prolonged or improper use of a computer workstation may pose a risk of serious injury. To reduce your risk of injury, set up and use your computer in the manner described in this appendix.
Although some studies have shown an association between increasing hours of keyboard use and the development of some musculoskeletal disorders, it is still unclear whether working at a computer causes such disorders. Some doctors believe that using the keyboard and mouse may aggravate existing musculoskeletal disorders.
Note Contact a doctor if you experience pain, tenderness, swelling, burning, cramping, stiffness, throbbing, weakness, soreness, tingling and/or numbness in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, back, and/or legs.
Some people are more susceptible to developing these disorders due to
To reduce your risk of developing these disorders, follow the instructions in this appendix. If you experience discomfort while working at your computer or afterwards, even at night, contact a doctor as soon as possible. Signs of discomfort might include pain, tenderness, swelling, burning, cramping, stiffness, throbbing, weakness, soreness, tingling and/or numbness in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, back, and/or legs.
Note To increase your comfort and safety when using your notebook computer as your primary computer system at your home or office, note the following recommendations:
Use a separate, external keyboard attached to your notebook computer.
Use a separate, external monitor attached to your notebook computer.
