This material is copyrighted. Any unauthorized use of this work is prohibited by law and will be vigorously prosecuted. If you wish to republish this material with attribution, contact copyrights@rsihelp.com for royalty rate information.
- Cut down on computer use: leave voicemail instead of sending e-mail.
Go for a walk or see a movie instead of playing video games. Look something
up in a book instead of searching the Web. You are in the danger zone
for injury if you use a computer for as little as two hours a day.
- Adjust your workstation properly. Make sure your monitor is directly
in front of you, with the top of the screen at eye level. Be sure your
keyboard and mouse are low enough to allow you to relax your shoulders.
- Sit up straight. Make sure your chair supports your spine in an erect
position.
- Practice proper technique: never rest your wrists on the desk, wrist
pad or armrests while you are typing or using a mouse or trackball.
- Pace yourself. Take a 5-to-10 minute break every 20 minutes and limit your overall time at the computer.
- Get regular cardiovascular exercise.
- Do appropriate upper-body strengthening ans stretching exercises.
- Stretch frequently while at the computer.
- Do not work at the computer or other hand-intensive activities if you are experiencing pain, fatigue
or soreness.
- Avoid using the mouse and trackball whenever possible. Use keystrokes instead.
– Deborah Quilter
If you experience any warning signs of RSI, see a competent doctor immediately.
For more information about preventing RSI, see The Repetitive Strain Injury Recovery Book, by Deborah Quilter (Walker, New York 1998). [ordering information]
Except where specifically noted, all contents of this site copyright © 1996 - 2003 Deborah Quilter. All rights reserved.