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“Avoiding Repetitive-Stress Injuries: A Writer's Guide” by Geoff Hart. Presented by Aubrey Hillman 11/13/08. Introduction. What is an RSI? Aches and pains Hand problems Eye strain Conclusion. What is an RSI?. Repetitive Stress Injury
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“Avoiding Repetitive-Stress Injuries: A Writer's Guide” by Geoff Hart Presented by Aubrey Hillman 11/13/08
Introduction • What is an RSI? • Aches and pains • Hand problems • Eye strain • Conclusion
What is an RSI? • Repetitive Stress Injury • “Any injury that results from overuse of a body part without giving it time to recover” • Computer users are at high risk
Aches and Pains • Sitting at a desk for long hours can cause leg and back pain • Buy a high quality chair • “Test drive” the chair before you buy it • Use a footrest if necessary
Aches and Pains • Adjust your workstation to your natural body position • Try using alternatives to a mouse • Trackballs • Graphics tablets • Remember that everyone’s body is different
Hand Problems • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • “Compression of the nerve that runs through the ‘carpal tunnel’ in your wrist” • Can cause severe pain • Have it checked out by a doctor • Other hand problems can mimic CTS • Avoid twisting your wrist at odd angles • Look into ergonomic keyboards
Hand Problems • Traditional keyboards require a lot of finger movement • Investigate new keyboard designs • Beware of laptops! • Laptop keyboards can jarr your fingertips • Use an external keyboard if possible • Avoid wrist rests • They compress the tissues in your wrists
Eye Strain • Take frequent breaks • Keep the monitor at arm’s length • If you wear glasses, ask your doctor about computer glasses • “Test drive” a monitor before you buy it • Find the font that works best for your eyes
Eye Strain • Set the vertical refresh rate to maximum • Use laptop and LCD screens instead of traditional CRT screens • Avoid florescent lights in your work environment • Avoid glare on the screen • Blink more often
Conclusion • Invest in good tools • Buy high quality products • Test before you buy • Stay in shape • Let technology help • Consider voice software • But be careful! Don’t overuse voice software either • Listen to your body