Is your computer hurting you? Ch

2.‘Monitor’ your health

When in your chair, be sure to swivel your chair so you’re facing the monitor straight-on so you’re not putting strain on your neck. Your monitor should be at eye level and should tilt left and right and swivel up and down – to help you find the most comfortable angle.

Look away from your monitor every couple of minutes and close your eyes every few moments to give them a break, too. “Dry eye” is becoming a common condition seen by optometrists. Symptoms include a stinging, burning or scratchy sensation in your eyes, eye redness, sensitivity to light or perhaps some stringy mucus in or around your eyes.

3.More ‘ergo’ tips and tricks

Take frequent breaks. Get up to get a drink of water, stretch and do some minor neck, back and arm exercises. You can also gently rub your muscles when you need a little break.

Perform these short stretches and exercises repeatedly throughout the day, even if it’s rolling your neck around, reaching up to the ceiling or walking around the office to stretch your legs.

If you use a phone all day, buy a hands-free headset, so you’re not trying to hold the phone between your neck and ear while typing at the same time.