Q. What is ergonomics?

A. Ergonomics is all about design. It’s about how the human body interacts with objects, systems, and the environment based on scientific data. The data is used in the design process so that the body can function as smoothly and easily as possible. Implementing ergonomics promotes healthy and pain free human activity.

Q. What does RSI mean?

A. RSI stands for Repetitive Stress Injury. AN RSI is the result of a physical action being repeated again and again to the point that soft tissues are negatively affected. For example, the acts of clicking a mouse or rolling a track ball are common movements associated with RSI. Other terms, like MSD (musculoskeletal disorder), RMI (Repetitive Motion Injury), and CTD (Cumulative Trauma Disorder) are often used to mean the same thing.

Q. What are the symptoms of RSI?

A. Unusual sensations like tingling, burning, or numbness in the hands may be an indicator. You might notice a change in how your hands function, such as weakness, stiffness, or clumsiness. Painful symptoms can be soreness or tightness. RSI doesn’t only happen to hands; the neck, upper back, and shoulders may suffer from RSI. If the pain wakes you up at night, that’s a pretty big red flag.

 Q. What does using a computer have to do with RSI?

A. People who spend prolonged periods of time using a computer are at high risk for RSI. This is because the hand and arm motions recur over and over. Typing and the use of pointing devices are the biggest culprits when it comes to hand troubles. The monitor being too high is a common cause of neck pain. Using a computer with arms that are outstretched rather than hanging normally will lead to shoulder and upper back problems. Laptops are the worst in terms of the toll they take on the user because they don’t adjust in any way. 

Q. How can I prevent RSI?

A. Using good computing technique is the first item on your list. For starters, stay relaxed. Holding your shoulders up around your ears will not get that report out any faster. The tenser the muscles, the harder it is for them to work fluidly. Next, try not to kill the keyboard when you type. If you type hard enough to rub the letters right off the keys, take it easy. Same thing goes for how you hold the mouse. It’s not going to run away; hold it with a light hand. You also want to make sure the monitor height is correct.

 Your head should have a slight downward tilt when you look at the monitor. Other practices to incorporate are taking regular breaks and stretching (especially your hands).

 Q. What if I just can’t get comfortable using my computer?

A. The good news is that lots of great devices are available to help. You can find ergonomically designed:

• keyboards
• mice
• arm supports that attach to desks or chairs
• footrests
• wrist rests
• numeric keypads (great for ergonomic data entry)
• mouse grips and oversized mouse pads.

Q. Is there anything else I can do to avoid RSI?

A. This one takes a little discipline, but it’s important. If you spend long hours working at the computer, try to minimize using it for recreation. The last thing your hands need after a typical work day is hours of online gaming. Go for a walk, groom the dog, anything but more computer use. Your hands will thank you for it.