Follow Expert Advice for Pain-Free Computer Use
By Brandi Goodman
The second Monday of every February is deemed National Clean Out Your Computer Day. Days like this on the calendar make it even more important that people everywhere understand the importance of following advice when sitting at a computer for an extended time. You'll get serious back pain if you don't listen to the experts and learn how best to handle time spent in front of a computer screen.
Get an Adjustable Seat
Having an adjustable seat ensures you sit at the right height when working on your computer. You want the screen to be directly in front of your face without having to look up or down at it. Your feet should also be kept flat on the floor so you can maintain proper posture and avoid developing pain in your back.
Use an Ergonomic Keyboard
Most keyboards are not very friendly to your wrists. After time spent typing with your wrists sitting at a funny angle, you tend to feel pain throughout the area and even into your hands. An ergonomic keyboard helps with this problem. It does not appear rectangular in shape like many other keyboards. Instead, it has a curved pattern, particularly along the bottom of the board, so your wrists can rest comfortably.
Stretch at Your Seat
It's incredibly important to stretch while you're working on your computer. Sitting in the same position for an extended time can start to make your muscles and joints tense up and even become weakened. Stretching will help to promote flexibility and keep your body limber so you're able to continue working as needed.
Take Breaks
Aside from stretching, you also need to get up and move your body. Taking breaks will give your eyes and body a rest. Roughly every 20 to 30 minutes, it is recommended that you get up and stretch your legs. Take a few minutes to step away from the computer and allow yourself time to recuperate before attempting to sit back down again.
Relax Your Hands When Not Typing
Some people leave their hands on the keyboard no matter if they're actually typing or not. When you come across a blog post, file, or other written word you need to read, remove your hands from the computer. It's better to let them rest so you do not allow arm or wrist pain to develop from leaving them in a strained position for so long.
If you still notice discomfort after time spent at the computer, see your chiropractor. Visit The Joint Chiropractic at one of their more than 450 locations for a chance to find some relief. You may have joint restrictions that are causing problems that even the best tips won't fix.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Wilmington, N.C.
