January 18, 2021: Due to COVID-19 protocols, the Knox Center will remain closed until further notice. Staff is still available for consultations; please contact [email protected].
The most important things you can do to protect your back, neck and wrists, especially when using technology, are:
- Sit or stand up straight
- Minimize reaching/twisting/bending
- When typing, position wrists straight, not bent
- Take short posture breaks and stretch
- Exercise and eat healthy foods
If you're ready to take the next steps in taking care of yourself, here are some things to try:
- Some people find computing when standing or alternating between sitting and standing increases their comfort. Height-adjustable tables are available at several public and residential locations on campus.
- The Fishbowl (Angell Hall) and Taubman Health Sciences Library computer labs on campus include Knoll ReGeneration adjustable chairs.
- Your eyes are also susceptible to discomfort from computer misuse. Lifehacker has some good answers to the question "How Do I Prevent Eyestrain at My Computer?"
- The US Department of Labor Computer Workstations eTool has some useful information for making your home workstation more comfortable.
- Experiencing sore thumbs or neck discomfort from mobile device use? Check out these Ways to Use Smartphones and Tablets Ergonomically from AllThingsErgo.com.
- If you use science labs as part of your classwork, check out the Laboratory Ergonomics Tutorial. If you require lab accommodations, please check with your department.
Have questions or suggestions for additions to this page? Contact Jane Vincent at [email protected].