Working on the computer is something which has become unavoidable these days, most of us here, use computers for more than 12 hours a day, or even more than that. Researches have proved that several disorders are the outcome of long working sessions, inappropriate postures, lack of timely breaks, etc. Here is the list of problems, and preventions if you work on a computer for long hours
If you are wondering what this post is doing on a technical blog, then here is my idea. Every day we talk and teach you about doing different things with your computer but on the other side where we get stressed about the laptop also. So this series of mine will help you how to relax and be aware of things the happen with the computer. Lets called as tips on “How to get relaxed of computer stress.“
Problems and Preventions when working on the computer for too long
So back to the topic, Here I am trying to enlist some of the problems computer users often face, and some preventive measures which are handy enough.
1] Lower Back Pain
One of the most reported issues by computer users, causes can range from the wrong type of chairs and desk to wrong sitting postures, like sitting crossed leg for long.
Getting a chair that has a backrest of adjustable height can be helpful; try to avoid sitting crossed leg for long.
2] Neck Pain
Generally, the inappropriate height of the screen/monitor is responsible for this ailment; for preventive measures, try keeping the monitor at the height of your eyesight.
3] Vision Discomfort
Vision discomfort is another major problem faced by many computer users, constant focusing, and glare leads to visual pain.
To prevent these special computer glasses and computer screen filters can be used, apart from this limit, the amount of time you continuously use the computer, Check the height and arrangement of the laptop, Check for glare on the computer screen, Keep Blinking. More can be read here.
4] Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
CTS is a disorder in which the median nerve is compressed at the wrist, causing symptoms like tingling, pain, coldness, and sometimes weakness in parts of the hand. Gripping and typing are the leading cause of this disorder. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when tendons or ligaments in the wrist become enlarged, often from inflammation. As a preventive measure rotating the wrist after short intervals is very helpful. Bend the fingers at knuckles, and hold for around five seconds, and repeat.
5] Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS)
TOS consists of a group of distinct disorders that affect the nerves in the brachial plexus (nerves that pass into the arms from the neck) and various nerves and blood vessels between the base of the neck and axilla (armpit). Pain is the most common symptom of TOS and often occurs with tenderness. Paresthesias (an abnormal burning or prickling sensation generally felt in the hands, arms, legs, or feet), sensory loss, and weakness also occur.
Short and long pauses and resting during your workday is helpful to prevent TOS. Exercises for neck, back, hands during long breaks also work as prevention.
6] DeQuervain’s Syndrome
Also known as “washerwoman’s sprain” or “De Quervain’s Disease,” is an inflammation of the sheath or tunnel that surrounds two tendons that control the movement of the thumb. It is caused by the repetitive motion of the thumb continually being required to move up and down, usually associated with using a computer keyboard or typewriter.
It usually causes pain and swelling over the thumb side of the wrist, possibly numbness on the back of the thumb, and difficulty in gripping. However, exercises of hand and fingers are helpful; also taking breaks and rest during the hectic work schedule helps a lot.
7] Occupational Overuse Syndrome
Numerous human body disorders such as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, Tennis Elbow, Housemaid’s knee, Repetitive Strain Injury are now classed as an occupational overuse syndrome.
So after having a quick introduction of these disorders, we can say that most of these can be prevented by
- Regular Exercises
- Taking proper breaks and pause
- Appropriate sitting arrangements and postures.
So now make it a habit to add a light work out in your schedule, also take care of the postures and make it a point to take proper breaks and following some simple stretching exercises even while at work. You can also visit different websites to know more about the disorders stated above; this post is not sufficient enough to get the preventive measures.
Do tell us whats the effect on your body when you work long hours on your computer? Do any of these happens and what you do to relax out of it. Next post, I will come out with some small and quick exercise tips.
We hope these tips were useful in understanding problems and preventions when working on the computer for long hours.
