Working with Computers

How many hours a day do you spend in front of a computer? You need to be familiar with computer commands in order to access it, your eyes may require special training to adapt to the VDU's (Visual Display Unit) screen.

Your hands may experience fatigue from Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). The most common problem being chronic carpal-tunnel syndrome. RSI is a form of chronic tenosgnovitis (inflammation of the sheath around a tendon).

Examples of RSI include: Tennis elbow, writers cramp, or joggers shin. Computer related hand/arm injuries account for a large percentage of workers compensation claims in Australia.

VDU rays add to the eye's burden, and can produce visual stress, eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision, itching/burning eyes, double vision, eye fatigue, these are some complaints by computer operators.

Prevention and Self-Help

Be aware of your posture
Make sure your chair supports your back and legs
Position the VDU screen slightly below eye level, place your work material and the screen at the same distance from the eyes (approx. 350 500mm) thus reducing the need for frequent changes of focus
A quality adjustable document holder is an essential item
Adjust the screen brightness and workstation lighting so that the screen characters are about 10 times brighter than the screen background
The screen brightness should be 3 times greater than the office lighting
A glare reduction screen should be an essential part of your workstation
Eliminate glare and screen reflection by moving/tilting your terminal. Do not face bright windows or light sources
Angle the lamp away from you, so the light bounces off the wall and doesn't create a reflection on the screen

Shiatsu - acupressure points can be used to relieve pain depending on the site of a problem - see your shiatsu practitioner. Shiatsu is an appropriate preventative and treatment program
Hydrotherapy using ice packs, cold shower jets, whirlpool bath and mud packs will help
Homeopathic treatment which includes "Arnica and Aconite" 6x (one table twice a day for three days). Arnica cream rubbed over the affected parts/area is a useful first aid measure
Acupuncture can be of great help. Relaxation/meditation can also contribute to betterment.
Take short breaks by looking into the distance and take 10 minute break every hour.
Vary your workload to avoid long hours on the terminal.

With the right training you may enjoy peak performance in the workplace!