Apple PowerBook G3 - Manual (Page 85)

85
A P P E N D I X
Health, Safety, and Maintenance Tips
Health-Related Information About Computer Use
Muscle soreness, eye fatigue, and other discomforts and injuries sometimes associated with
using computers can occur from performing any number of activities. In fact, misuse of the
same muscles during multiple activities can create a problem that might not otherwise exist.
For example, if you engage in nonwork activities that involve repetitive stress on the wrist—
such as bicycling—and also use your computer’s keyboard improperly, you may increase your
likelihood of developing wrist problems. Some individuals are at greater risk of developing
these problems because of their health, physiology, lifestyle, and general exposure to stress.
Work organization and conditions, such as workstation setup and lighting, also play a part in
your overall health and comfort. Preventing health problems is a multifaceted task that
requires careful attention to the way you use your body every hour of every day.
The most common health effects associated with using a computer are musculoskeletal
discomfort and eye fatigue. We’ll discuss each area of concern in this appendix.
Musculoskeletal Discomfort
As with any activity that involves sitting for long periods of time, using a computer can make
your muscles sore and stiff. To minimize these effects, set up your work environment
carefully, using the guidelines that follow, and take frequent breaks to rest tired muscles. To
make 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 musculoskeletal concern is repetitive stress injuries (RSIs), also known as
cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs). These problems can occur when a certain muscle or
tendon is repeatedly overused 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 likelihood of experiencing an RSI.