Discomfort that comes from sitting too long can manifest itself in many ways. These 8 ways of reducing discomfort while sitting will help keep you healthy. 1. Reduce headachesComputer related headaches are a result of overuse, glare from bright overhead lightening and hot spots. To reduce headaches reduce the amount of light around the monitor. Close window blinds during periods of full sunlight. Position your monitor so that there is no glare or use an anti-glare screen. Use task lightening and reduce the amount of overhead lighting. Take regular breaks by looking away from the monitor. 2. Reduce eyestrainEye strain is the most common complaint among office workers. Eye fatigue, blurred vision, burning eyes, aching eyes, and dry eyes are all common symptoms. To reduce eye strain make sure you are wearing the correct prescription glasses, you may even want to purchase a set of glasses with an optimal focal point for computer work. Use a glare filter and reduce overhead lighting, replacing with task lighting. Avoid using multiple windows, set your font size at 10 pts or larger and set your monitor's colors to reduce eyestrain. Take regular breaks by looking away from your screen. 3. Reduce neck and shoulder tensionNeck pain is a result of poor neck posture over a long period of time, which also leads to tension in the shoulders. To reduce neck and shoulder strain, adjust the monitor to the centerline of your body to avoid twisting of the head. Raise or lower your monitor to a level that naturally lines up with the placement of your body. As little as 1? can make the difference. Place your copy material on a document holder that is located in your natural sight line. 4. Reduce shoulder and arm discomfortShoulder and arm discomfort can become a chronic repetitive strain injury if not addressed. The use of the mouse and the extended position of the arm, have resulted in an increase in the number of complaints. To reduce tension place the mouse at the same level as the keyboard, and as close to the keyboard as possible. Use a comfortable rest on both the keyboard and mouse. The memory gel style are excellent. Sit back in your chair to correctly support your back, then move the keyboard and mouse towards you. 5. Reduce elbow and wrist painEarly warning signs of potential injuries include CTS and tendonitis. These symptoms need to be taken seriously. Report them to your doctor and to your supervisor, and take immediate action to correct the cause or you will suffer long term damage. The exact cause of your pain needs to be determined. Your workstation should be reorganized, and good posture should be practiced. 6. Lower back painLower back pain is directly related to poor posture, a poorly designed work station, and poor work habits. The lower back needs good lumbar support to reduce discomfort. To reduce lower back pain obtain an ergonomic office chair that allows you to adjust it to fit your body and your work environment. Your chair should support the natural s curve of the spine and the seat should fully support the thigh and upper leg. Arrange your keyboard, monitor, and mouse so that you do not need to lean forward. 7. Relieve thigh pressureThigh pressure can normally be contributed to a hard chair, a worn seat, a flat seat, or a chair that is not the correct size for the user. To relieve thigh pressure make sure your chair has adequate padding. If you are less than 5'2? you might consider using a foot rest so that your feet rest properly. If you are over 6'2' choose an adjustable chair that can accommodate your height. 8. Relieve thro***g ankles and feetCold feet or swollen ankles and feet can be caused by sitting at a work station for too long. Because of the lack of movement there is poor circulation to the area and the blood tends to pool there. When symptoms occur get up and walk around, do tasks that require you to stand or move around. Too often we ignore the subtle little symptoms that tell us our body is not comfortable. It's only when the pain becomes bad that we stop and take notice. For some this comes too late because a chronic injury has already occurred. So take notice by reducing discomfort while sitting.
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