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Ergonomics 101:
Ergonomics (er•go•nom•ics) n.
1. Design factors, as for the workplace, intended to maximize productivity by minimizing operator fatigue and discomfort
Ergonomics is the science of how to make working with machines more comfortable. By understanding the anatomy and capability of the human body, ergonomists help re-engineer our environments to optimize comfort and safety.
In August 2000, the International Ergonomics Association (IEA) Council adopted the following official definition of ergonomics:
“Ergonomics (or human factors) is the scientific discipline concerned with the understanding of interactions among humans and other elements of a system, and the profession that applies theory, principles, data and methods to design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system performance.”
Computer-Use Related Injuries
Injuries associated with working on a computer have increased 1000% over the last 15 years as computers are occupying an ever more important place in our lives. These kinds of injuries, called musculoskeletal disorders, usually affect the muscle, skeletal, and/or nervous systems. They can cause pain and discomfort, and restrict bodily motions. Some symptoms include fatigue and pain in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulder, neck, or back. Most computer-use related injuries can be attributed to awkward posture, repetitive motions, and overuse. According to statistics compiled by the Occupational Safety and Health Organization (OSHA), nearly 1.8 million U.S. workers suffer each year from repetitive strain injuries, an increasing number of these are a direct result of working at computer workstations.
Most importantly, many of these injuries can be prevented through a series of simple and inexpensive changes in workstation layout and tools, and adoption of several stretching and strengthening exercises.
The following have been identified as contributing factors to pain and discomfort for computer users:
Awkward Positions:
Poor posture places unusual and excessive pressure on parts of the body. Examples of poor posture include not having your monitor at the right height, having your chair too far away from the keyboard or mouse, or having your documents positioned too low. These kinds of awkward positions create a risk of injury for your entire body but particularly for the wrists, shoulders, and neck.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health reviewed over 600 studies and concluded that there was evidence of a causal relationship between low-back injuries and disorders and workplace exposures to awkward posture.
Duration:
Duration is the amount of time a person stays in a certain position to perform a given task. The longer the same muscle or muscle group is used, the greater the chance of fatigue. Rest breaks and changing tasks is important to decrease prolonged static positions. Also important is the use of position aides. For example, foot rests, copy holders, adjustable chairs, and keyboard trays all reduce the risk of injury and minimize fatigue to muscle groups.
Repetitive Motions:
Studies show that injuries and disorders caused by overexertion and repetitive strain are the nation's most common and costly work related health problem. The greater the number of repetitions, the greater the risk of injury becomes. The leading cause of computer use discomfort associated with: computer use and wrist and forearm pain are generally the result of extensive typing. When performed for long periods with no rest, fatigue and strain accumulate. The increased use of computers in both homes and businesses, has put most of us in an exceedingly vulnerable position.
Areas of Discomfort:
In the following sections we describe some of the most common areas of discomfort. For each area we discuss the causes of discomfort and highlight potential solutions.
ErgoTouch Solutions
Our goal at ErgoTouch is to improve health and safety, reduce pain, prevent injuries, and improve quality and productivity in your home and work environment.
The following product recommendations are based on data from scientific studies, however please know that each individual case is different and results may vary. Please note that severe symptoms and injuries should be treated by a health professional.
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