Ergonomics

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WORKPLACE ORGANIZATION
The way you organize the elements of your workplace to fit your individual needs is probably the most important consideration in working comfortably. You can save time and effort throughout the work day by taking a few minutes to think about the best position for your equipment and the most effective use of your space.

Make sure that you:
• Have sufficient desk area which allows you to position your keyboard, mouse, display, document holder and other items (such as a telephone) in the way that works best for you.
• Organize your desk to reflect the way you use work materials and equipment. Place the things that you use most regularly, such as a mouse or telephone, within the easiest reach.
• Vary your tasks and take periodic breaks. This helps to reduce the possibility of discomfort or fatigue.

EARLY DETECTION
The most painful cases of CTS are those that have gone undetected or untreated over a long time. CTS can be caught easily in its early stages, however, and much of the pain and all of the disability avoided.

Early symptoms include a tingling in the fingers, often beginning several hours after work activity has stopped. Because of this delay in the appearance of symptoms, many CTS sufferers don't make the connection between their work activities and the pain they feel until it's too late. The tingling can lead, over time, to stiffness and numbness in the fingers and hand, and then to severe wrist and hand pain.

For many individuals the early symptoms of CTS go unnoticed. Employers and co-workers can help one another identify the onset of CTS by watching for and pointing out any unconscious shaking of the hands, rubbing of the wrists, or unusual postures or hand positions at the keyboard.

At the first sign of CTS, you should be examined by a doctor who specializes in hand and wrist disorders. The doctor can perform a number of simple tests to detect CTS, and can prescribe specific steps for avoiding the problem.

Mom Always Said ...
Why does garden-variety ergonomic wisdom tell us to "sit up straight," with hips and knees at perfect 90-degree angles? Good question. Probably the same reason most people only exercise the muscles they can see in the mirror: It looks good. Sitting up straight, even with a good lumbar support, is very tiring. That is why you will not see anyone doing it for more than a few minutes at a time. They will gradually slump forward, chin poking out over the desk and keyboard, pulling on all the usual anti-gravity muscles in the back, neck and shoulder ... and wonder what brought on those nagging aches by the end of the day (hmm, must be "stress").

From: Assurance Agency