Gaming
means long hours at the computer. Self absorbent and an obsessive hobby, incorrect
habits and
posture are detrimental to health. Problems like musculoskeletal
injuries, eyestrain, and disabilities of the hands and wrist like, RSI or
Repetitive Strain Injury are common.
Bad
posture causes: pain, stiffness of joints, weakness, bad circulation, as well
as swelling.
Ensure
that:
The desk is designed especially
for computers.While seated, the feet are
flat on the floor; arms and thighs are parallel to the ground; back is straight;
and the arms don’t have to stretch out to reach the
keyboard or
mouse. The keyboard height is such
that the elbows are parallel to the ground and level with the keyboard. An
ergonomic keyboard is recommended.The spine maintains its ‘S’
curve when seated, so use an ergonomic chair and if required, a footstool.
The mouse is placed at the
same height as the keyboard. Use your whole arm not just the wrist when
operating the mouse.Typing is done with
light fingers. The wrists should be flat and not angled to the left or right. To
avoid nerve compression the elbow must not be angled more than 90 degrees.The arms are raised off the
keyboard as often as possible. Tasks are alternated so that
you are not typing or clicking the mouse continuously.
Another
factor is
eye strain. Extended computer use can cause: blurred vision, focusing
difficulties, as well as headaches.
Reduce
risk by ensuring that:
The light source is angled
from the side. The primary light source must not shine on the face or
directly on the screen. Lighting should have a 10:3 ratio screen
characters should be 10X brighter than background and room lights should
be 3X the screen brightness. Use a shaded copy lamp to avoid screen reflections.Reflections and glare are
eliminated by using an antiglare screen and by tilting the
monitor slightly.The monitor must be centered
so that neither the body nor neck is twisted when viewing the screen.The screen is of good
quality. The text should be sharp and nor distorted. Change the resolution
to a comfortable font size.The monitor is a suitable
distance away.The screen is at eye level or
lower.Brightness and contrast are
reduced to suitable levels.
It is important to:
Break concentration by looking
away from the monitor at far away objects at least once every 15-20
minutes.Pause in between to blink
your eyes rapidly. This will lubricate the eyes and prevent dryness.Schedule regular eye checks.Monitor blurred vision,
headaches, red eyes, or watering eyes.Splash water and wash your
eyes at least 3-4 times a day.
Tips:
It is advisable to take
frequent breaks, either do stretches or take a short walk once every hour
for 10-15 minutes.Use a well ventilated room.Reduce emission in laser
printers, photocopiers, and scanners.
Problems can be eliminated and the risk reduced by
inculcating good posture and working habits.
About the Author: Paul Wilson is the content manager for www.1888FreeOnlineGames.com, the
premier website to play thousands of free online
Games including arcade games,
action games, card games, flash games, strategy games, puzzle games and more.
He also manages content for www.1888softwaredownloads.com.
More reviews about the Protect Yourself While Gaming - Tips to avoid eye strain and Proper sitting tips while playing games