Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Easing Your Back and Upper Limbs
Everything we do depends on our back. If our back is injured or out of
alignment, it affects our ability to perform even the most mundane tasks.
And yet, the back is arguably the most abused part of the body. This is
because we fail to adopt the correct position when we perform certain
activities, such as lifting heavy items. Even sitting down must be done
correctly to ensure back health.
Unfortunately, too many computer users suffer from back problems because
they fail to care for their back while they work. Computer users are also sub-
ject to sore fingers, aching shoulders, tired arms, and injured elbows. Often,
permanent damage is done. For help preventing this, read on.
Using Good Posture
Posture
refers to how we sit or stand. When using your computer (or
doing anything else), it's critical that you use good posture. Otherwise,
you put too much strain on your body.
posture
How a person sits or stands. When
someone has good posture, the body is straight
and the spine is correctly aligned.
A good working posture is one in which the body's position can be
maintained with minimal physical effort. Your body should be relaxed.
This allows you to maintain your position for longer, without putting
strain on the body. Here are some hallmarks of good posture:
◾
The lower back is supported by the shape of the chair.
◾
The head is up and level.
◾
The upper arms are relaxed.
◾
The forearms are at a right angle with the upper arms.
◾
The wrists are in a straight line with the hands and forearms.
◾
The knees are level with the hips and the thighs are horizontal.
◾
The feet are flat on the floor (or resting on a platform or footrest).
For best results, obtain an adjustable chair. Then use it to adjust your
position while seated—leaning slightly backward for a while, and then
slightly forward. Moving around in this way will help reduce strain on
your body. (Regardless of how good your posture is, it is not wise to sit
in the same position for too long!) An adjustable table or monitor stand
can also help, enabling you to position the monitor correctly, as well as
promote the correct placement for your forearms and wrists.
To prevent neck strain, position your monitor directly in front of you on the desk, not at an angle
off to one side.
TIP
