in reply to Since I began using computers, I have hurt my:

Wrists, definitely. And fingers, too.

You just wouldn't believe the pain I've been going through this past few days... my right hand index finger pain meter seems to be in an always-on policy, lately.

I'm actually thinking about implementing an anti-RSI program in the company I work in. Thoughts on this are deeply appreciated.

  • Comment on Re: Since I began using computers, I have hurt my:

Replies are listed 'Best First'.
Re^2: Since I began using computers, I have hurt my:
by radiantmatrix (Parson) on Jun 06, 2006 at 18:21 UTC

    Every place I've worked for a reasonable time, I've made it a condition of my employment that there be ergonomic accomodations made. Here's what I ask for (and have always got):

    • LCD Monitor, 17" 1280x1024 450:1 contrast (or better); reduces eye strain (for me: it's worse for some people).
    • Ergonomic mouse (currently, Logitech MX-500)
    • Goldtouch adjustable split KB
    • A decent task chair w/o arms (or w/ arms I can lower significantly to simulate their absence)
    • WorkRave to enforce typing breaks

    Orgs are usually already on with a good chair, so the expenditure is rather low. The only objection I've ever had is the monitor, and then they've always been willing to let me bring my own. Yeah, I shouldn't have to do that -- but spending $300 on a decent monitor is better than having headaches every day.

    I actually get more done with the enforced breaks, because my typing speed stays higher on average than without the regular breaks (because of discomfort in the wrists and fingers). I say, if you have the ability, you should definitely institute an anti-RSI policy.

    <–radiant.matrix–>
    A collection of thoughts and links from the minds of geeks
    The Code that can be seen is not the true Code
    I haven't found a problem yet that can't be solved by a well-placed trebuchet
[reply]
      if you have the ability, you should definitely institute an anti-RSI policy.

      Well, as a matter of fact, I was promoted last week to team leader.

      So... since I'm leading the department... yes, I think I do have the ability to institute that policy :-)

[reply]
Re^2: Since I began using computers, I have hurt my:
by NateTut (Deacon) on Jun 06, 2006 at 16:30 UTC
    I got it in the right thumb, right wrist too until I started mousing with my left hand.
[reply]
[d/l]
Re^2: Since I began using computers, I have hurt my:
by g0n (Priest) on Jun 07, 2006 at 16:19 UTC
    I started getting wrist and elbow pain about 2 months into my current project, in spite of using a palm rest. I quickly came to the conclusion that it was because I was accustomed to laptop style keyboards with short travel, soft action etc. I tried an ultra flat keyboard and a track ball, and that made things a little better.

    Then I found this.

    It's identical to the keyboard/pointing device combo I'm used to, but is a usb device for a desktop. Since I changed over my wrist pain has stopped entirely.

    IMHO, if you're going to be spending long periods of time typing and mousing, it's worth finding the exact input device combination that suits you, and sticking with it.

    --------------------------------------------------------------

    "If there is such a phenomenon as absolute evil, it consists in treating another human being as a thing."
    John Brunner, "The Shockwave Rider".

    Can you spare 2 minutes to help with my research? If so, please click here

[reply]

In Section Past Polls