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A-2 Setting Up a Healthy Work Environment
Prolonged or improper use of a computer
workstation may pose a risk of serious injury. To reduce your risk of injury,
set up and use your computer in the manner described in this appendix.
Contact a doctor if you experience pain, tenderness, swelling, burning,
cramping, stiffness, throbbing, weakness, soreness, tingling and/or
numbness in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, back, and/or legs.
Making Your Computer Work for You
Computers are everywhere. More and more people sit at computers for
longer periods of time. This appendix explains how to set up your
computer to fit your physical needs. This information is based on
ergonomics — the science of making the workplace fit the needs of the
worker.
Some nerve, tendon, and muscle disorders (musculoskeletal disorders)
may be associated with repetitive activities, improper work environments,
and incorrect work habits. Examples of musculoskeletal disorders that
may be associated with certain forms of repetitive activities include:
carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, tenosynovitis, de Quervain’s
tenosynovitis, and trigger finger, as well as other nerve, tendon, and
muscle disorders.
Although some studies have shown an association between increasing
hours of keyboard use and the development of some musculoskeletal
disorders, it is still unclear whether working at a computer causes such
disorders. Some doctors believe that using the keyboard and mouse may
aggravate existing musculoskeletal disorders.
Some people are more susceptible to developing these disorders due to
preexisting conditions or psychosocial factors (see “Preexisting
Conditions and Psychosocial Factors” later in the appendix).
To reduce your risk of developing these disorders, follow the instructions
in this appendix. If you experience discomfort while working at your
computer or afterwards, even at night, contact a doctor as soon as
possible. Signs of discomfort might include pain, tenderness, swelling,
burning, cramping, stiffness, throbbing, weakness, soreness, tingling
and/or numbness in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, back, and/or
legs.