Apple Macintosh LC 550 - Manual (Page 13)

Musculoskeletal discomfort As with any activity that involves sitting for long periods of time, using a computer can mak
e your muscles sore and stiff
. T
o
minimize these effects, set up your work environment carefully
,
using the guidelines that follow
, and tak
e frequent breaks to rest
tired muscles. T
o mak
e working with your computer more
comfortable, allow enough space in your work area so that you can change position frequently and maintain a relaxed posture. Another type of musculosk
eletal concer
n is repetitive stress
injuries (RSIs), also known as cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs). These problems can occur when a certain muscle or tendon is repeatedly over
used and forced into an unnatural
position. The exact causes of RSIs are not totally understood, but in addition to awkward posture, such factors as the amount of repetition, the force used in the activity
, the individual’s
physiology
, workplace stress level, and lifestyle may affect the
lik
elihood of experiencing an RSI.
RSIs did not suddenly arise when computers were invented; tennis elbow and writer
’s cramp, for example, are two RSIs that
have been with us for a long time. Although less common than other RSIs, one serious RSI discussed more of
ten today is a wrist
problem called carpal tunnel syndrome, which may be aggravated by improper use of computer k
eyboards. This ner
ve disorder
results from excessive pressure on the median ner
ve as it passes
through the wrist to the hand. This section offers advice on setting up your work area to enhance your comfort while you use your computer
. Since the
effects of repetitive movements associated with using a computer can be compounded by those of other work and leisure activities to produce or aggravate physical problems, proper use of your computer system must be considered as just one element of a healthy lifestyle. No one, of course, can guarantee that you won
’t have problems
even when you follow the most expert advice on using computer equipment. Y
ou should always check with a qualified health
specialist if muscle, joint, or eye problems occur
.
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