Biomechanics and computer use

[Herman J. Woltring]

Dear Biomch-L readers,

The items below were distributed last Friday on the CCNEWS list; following
earlier Biomch-L items on the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, I think that it might
also be useful for our list.

Regards -- Herman J. Woltring.

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Date: Fri, 30 Nov 90 16:40:19 EST
From: "Wendy Rickard Bollentin, Editor, CCNEWS"
Subject: CCNEWS Articles Abstracts (Vol. 3, No. 40)
Sender: Campus Computing Newsletter Editors

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*** ARTICLES ABSTRACTS ***

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Volume 3, Number 40 Editor: Wendy Rickard Bollentin
November 30, 1990 EDUCOM

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CCNEWS Articles Abstracts, a service of EDUCOM, provides campus
computing publications specialists with updates on articles and
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"Computers Don't Belong on Desktops," by Daniel A. Updegrove, Assistant
Vice Provost for Data Administration and Information Resource Planning,
University of Pennsylvania, UPDEGROVE%A1.RELAY@UPENN.EDU

In an information age when many workers have a computer on their
desktop, physical problems are rampant. Complaints about back pains,
numbness, tingling in hands and fingers, and eyestrain are frequent among
those who use a computer for hours at a time. A lot of these problems can
be solved by paying attention to the positioning of both the computer and
the worker. A keyboard and mousepad at the correct height, a chair that
supports the back and the positioning of the computer screen to eliminate
glare are all steps that can be taken to avoid chronic pain and perhaps
eventual disability. This article suggests various changes in the
arrangement of office furnishings and layout that computer users can
make to avoid physical problems.

Filename Filetype: ERGONOM UPDEGR_D

Lines: 91

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"Avoiding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Guide for Computer Keyboard
Users," by Mark Sheehan, University Computing Services, Indiana
University, "University Computing Times," July-August, 1990,
SHEEHAN@IUBACS

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is frequently diagnosed among computers
users. This article gives a thorough description of the syndrome, its causes
and prevention. CTS can cause serious damage and even permanent
disability if undetected and untreated. As with many physical disorders,
early detection can make a real difference in recovery.

Filename Filetype: CTS SHEEHA_M

Lines: 213

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"VDT Health Risks: What To Do While the Jury's Out," by Mark Sheehan,
University Computing Services, Indiana University, "University Computing
Times," May-June 1990, SHEEHAN@IUBACS

For years there has been controversy about the health risks associated
with computer monitors or VDTs. While the risks have not been definitely
proven, there is evidence that long term exposure to the low-frequency
magnetic fields VDTs produce can cause disturbances at the cellular level
and may be responsible for an increased incidence of miscarriage in
pregnant VDT users.

This article points out some of the possible risks VDT users may encounter
and gives extremely helpful advice on how to minimize these risks. The
author suggests simple changes in work habits that can substantially
reduce the exposure levels of the magnetic field.

Filename Filetype: VDT SHEEHA_M

Lines: 138

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