10 Ways to Avoid Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

Spending hours sitting at computer, performing the same actions over and over again, puts us at risk of repetitive strain injury (RSI). It is most common among assembly line and computer workers. It is also a problem for guitarists who play with very tensed muscles.

Here is a list of 10 ways to keep you away from RSI - if you are working long hours in computer related job.

1. Take frequent breaks
It is a good idea to take regular breaks if you are required to use a comupter all day long. This not only gives you a chance to move around, but also rests the eyes.

2. Perform a few simple exercies
Take a look at the RSI exercises section of the Desktop Yoga website to learn some exercises you can perform at your desk to help combat RSI.

3. Use ergonomic devices
Ergonomic keyboards and mice help to minimise strain on the areas of the body most affected by RSI by ensuring that your hands and arms are correctly positioned.

4. Correctly position your monitor
If your monitor is positioned too high or too low, your neck will suffer from having to look up or down. Ideally your monitor should be placed around two feed away and positioned so that your eyes are level with the top third of the screen.

5. Consider voice-recognition Software
Typing can prove a real strain on your body, requiring repetitive movements from your fingers while your arms, neck and back remain tense. By switching to voice-recognition software, you can dictate documents and control Windows without needing to use a mouse and keyboard.

6. Ensure your set offers support
Your choice of seating is very important when it comes to comfort and posture. Adjustable seats can be positioned at the correct height to allow feed to sit flaton the floor, while arm rests help prevent shoulder strain.

7. Increase font sizes if necessary
If you need glasses, it’s important to wear them while using your computer to prevent eye strain. But if your eyes start to feed tired after sessions sat at the screen, it may be necessary to increase the size of fonts.

8. Use a laptop stand
Having your laptop in your lap while you work can lead to poor posture and place pressure on your hands. To get round this, invest in a laptop stand which can be used to raise the computer to a more usable position. Stands have the added benefit of shopping your legs from getting too hot.

9. Learn to touch type
Many people strike the keys of the keyboard too hard, which can place unnecessary strain on the fingers. Learning to thouch-type not only helps to stamp out this habit, but reduces the risk of neck injury that can arise from constantly looking up and down at the keyboard.

10. Reduce mouse clicking and movement
Mouse clicking and repetitive movements are bad news for hands. To reduce the amount of mouse movement and clicking needed to use Windows, install the free utility TweakUK. Activate the X-Mouse freature to make it easier to move between open windows.