Ergonomics: Your Computer
by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger
11 Apr 2008 07:37 AM
Your computer is an important part of your ergonomic set-up! Keeping your keyboard, mouse, and monitor in the right position can save you from a lot of strain and pain.
Tips to keep keyboard and mouse use more comfortable:
- Place the keyboard slightly below the elbow -- this will help your wrists to stay in a neutral position.
- Avoid using a wrist rest while typing. Wrist rests are meant for the times when you AREN'T typing! Keep your wrists elevated while typing.
- Avoid tilting the keyboard so that the back is higher than the front. This will force your wrists to flex upward -- which is an unnatural, uncomfortable position.
- Place the keyboard in a "negative" position -- with the front higher than the back. This helps your wrists stay in a neutral position.
- Place the mouse on the same level as the keyboard -- not lower or higher.
- Position the mouse on an arc line with the keyboard so you can rotate your arm at the elbow for mouse use.
- Avoid using a wrist rest while using the mouse. Allowing your forearm to move freely can help avoid wrist strain.
Tips for monitor use to reduce neck and eye strain:
- Minimize glare by positioning the computer monitor at a right angle to any light source or window.
- Place the monitor as far away as possible while still maintaining the ability to read the screen easily. Try to keep a minimum distance of twenty inches from the screen.
- Position the center of the screen slightly down from your eyes -- around fifteen degrees. This will help keep your head and neck in a neutral position.
- Keep the keyboard, mouse, and monitor aligned so you aren't twisting or stretching awkwardly to use any piece.
- Limit monitor flicker by setting your screen's refresh rate at a minimum of 70 Hz.
