Computer Use and Ergonomic Issues

Computer Use and Ergonomic Issues

Since the late 1990s, computer use has increased tremendously in virtually all realms of society. Modern business organizations rely extensively on computer and information technology (it) systems. Likewise, computer use in the home has gone from the exception a few years prior to the turn of the century to the rule in modern American culture. As is so often the case with respect to human technological invention, the introduction and widespread use of computer technology in society has been a mixed blessing. On one hand, it contributes substantially to human endeavors in many ways; on the other hand, it is associated with various negative consequences as well. Today, ergonomic issues are a common concern in both the workplace and in the home. Regardless of where computer users work on their computers, they are susceptible to physiological problems caused by repetitive use. In many cases, these symptoms can actually cause long-term ailments without easy resolution. In the worst case scenario, ergonomic issues caused by computer use have necessitated surgery and even resulted in permanent disability.

Hand and Wrist Problems

By far, the most common and potentially serious and incapacitating symptoms of ergonomic problems caused by computer use are those affecting the hands and wrists. In principle, there are two main causes of hand and wrist problems associated with computer use: (1) incorrect angle maintained between the hands and wrists, and (2) incorrect relative elevation between the hands and the elbows. In the first case, the ergonomically correct position to avoid hand and wrist problems is to maintain the hands as straight as possible relative to the direction of the forearm. Excessive bending of the wrist can cause a condition called "carpal tunnel syndrome" which describes the compression of tendons in the wrist that can result in continual pain. In serious cases, the pain may be difficult to eliminate even in between typing sessions. One of the most effective solutions is to eliminate excessive pronation or supination of the wrists through the use of split keyboards that allow the user to angle and elevate each side of the keyboard independently.

In the second case, failing to maintain the forearms in a horizontal position can also trigger similar problems. This frequently occurs when users maintain their keyboards and mice on their desks instead of using a sliding keyboard and mouse tray. Prolonged use of keyboards and mice in an elevated position relative to the elbow causes wrist problems because of the continual downward bend required in the wrist. The solution to this type of hand and wrist problems is simply to use a pull-out keyboard and mouse tray that allows the user to keep the hands at the exact same height as the elbow without bending the wrist down at all during computer use.

Neck, Back, and Shoulder Problems

Prolonged computer use can also result in neck and back problems through similar mechanisms. When users fail to maintain the proper height of the computer monitor, they have a tendency to look up or down continuously for long periods of time. Both situations result in neck strain in many instances. The simple solution is to make sure that the top of the computer monitor is level with the eyes.