Thread: Laptop-itis

I just read this interesting article from MSN Health about Laptop-itis that I have to share it with you all.

The very design of laptop computers encourages bad posture among college students and other heavy users, which can lead to headaches, muscle strain and debilitating neck, shoulder and hand injuries, researchers caution.
Awkward positioning of the fingers and body can cause nerve injury to the wrist and prompt the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome, while poor neck position and shoulder posture can cause muscle strain and soreness in those areas.

Here are the steps to minimize the risk.

• Your body should form 90-degree angles at the elbows, knees and hips when you are working in your computer.
• Use a docking station and cables to hook up to an external monitor and/or separate keyboard that are moveable to encourage better posture.
• Position your computer so you can read the screen without bending your neck.
• Use an adjustable chair that comes with back support.
• Place the mouse nicely so that your wrists are in a neutral position, aligned with your arm and not raised above it.
• Take frequent short breaks every 20 minutes or so as this can help rest muscles and encourage position shifting.
• Do some shoulder shrugs, gentle forward head rolls, and shoulder scrunches to stretch your muscles.
• Drink plenty of water as this can help keep discs in your back lubricated.

This is the first time I have heard of this term but it does make a lot of sense. I use my laptop at work and at home and I do feel more tired on my neck, back and arms. Thanks for the helpful tips mikaela!

I do experiece back and neck pains too when working on my laptop. I don't use it when I am in bed though but it still hurts and I stretch when I feel a little pain. I should get a good computer chair then