“Avoiding Repetitive-Stress Injuries: A Writers Guide” By: Geoff Hart Presented By: Dipal Panara English 393: Technical Writing 6/22/09

Introduction What is RSI? The most common problems fall into 3 categories… 1.) Aches and pains 2.) Hand Problems 3.) Eye Strain Layout of work area Conclusion

“Repetitive-Stress Injuries” (RSI) “any injury that results from overuse of a body part without giving time to recover” “overuse injury” Who’s at risk?? Editors, writers..

Aches and Pains Occurs from spending long hours in awkward and uncomfortable positions in front of the computer. Slumped postures; misaligns spines, additional stress on muscles, bones and connective tissues --ex—hunch-back over a computer, arms awkwardly extended

Aches and Pains cont. Solutions Investigating in high quality desk and chair The seat and back cushions of your chair must comfortably distribute and support your weight, minimizing pressure on any one part of your body Adjustable back rest, arm rests, footrest Footrest– shifts some weight to lower legs and knees, reducing pressure on buttocks, hips, and thighs. Meets our body needs and provides necessary support that will greatly improve our comfort and reduce the aches and pains

Hand Problems Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) Many hand problems occur from flexing your wrist too sharply outwards and bending your wrists at awkward angles (compressing parts of your wrist) CTS—results from compression of the nerve that runs through the “carpel tunnel” in your wrist---swelling

Hand Problems cont.. Solutions Switching to Microsoft Natural Keyboard (helps keep wrists straight while you type) Laptop keyboards—consider creating macros, take frequent breaks “keyless” keyboard—touch rather than strike the keys

Eye Strain Spending a lot of time in front of a computer monitor will stress your eyes Solutions Take frequent breaks, making sure to blink more often Placing monitor at arm’s length from your body “computer glasses” (designed to help your eyes focus at the distance of your monitor) Investing in a high-quality monitor Making sure lighting is acoordingly (eliminating reflections)

Layout of your work area “natural” position While seated at your computer Arms should hang straight down from your shoulders Forearms angled slightly in front of your body No hunching of your shoulders or twisting of your spine “natural position”—ideal desk-chair combintaion

Conclusion There's a lot that can be done to protect yourself from most overuse injuries (see your doctor, your optometrist, RSI expert) Invest in good tools—computer equipment and workplace Stay in shape--exercise programs will strengthen the muscles that support your neck, arms, wrists, and fingers, and help ward off injury Let technology help—Via Voice product (reduce amount of typing) Listen to your body

Questions