What makes laptops a contributing factor to computer injuries?

Laptops offer many advantages over desktop computers. They are portable and require little storage space. In addition, today it is possible to acquire a powerful laptop at a reasonable price. However, the portability and small size come at a premium: Because the keyboard and screen are close together, you’re forced to work in an awkward position.

If you position the laptop so that you can type in a comfortable position, you will be forced to crane your neck and hunch your shoulders to see the text on the screen. Similarly, if you place the laptop at the right height for your eyes, you have to raise your shoulders and arms into an awkward position to be able to type and operate the mouse or trackpad.

Other contributing factors

Laptops were originally intended to be used for short periods of time. Today, however, laptops are increasingly being used for long periods of time for a multitude of tasks. In addition to work, laptops are used for searching data, studying, playing games, surfing the Internet, paying bills, shopping online, watching movies, and social networking. Laptops are also used in a wide variety of situations and settings: at home, in schools and libraries, in a car or plane, or lying on a couch or bed.

When time spent in front of a computer is added to time spent sitting in front of the television or other sedentary activities, postural problems, such as a forward head and rounded shoulders, become persistent musculoskeletal problems, such as tensions in the neck and shoulders, tension headaches and repetitive stress injuries. Our bodies do not have enough time to recover from the stress caused by prolonged immobility.

Tips to Reduce Laptop-Related Problems

Most of the problems caused by using a laptop are relatively easy to prevent. Adhering to four simple rules goes a long way in preventing the most common problems encountered.

• Take regular breaks – change your position or take a few steps once every 30 minutes
• If you use a laptop for long periods of time, use a separate keyboard, mouse, and screen
• Check your neck posture: is your neck in line with your shoulders?
• To avoid craning your neck near the screen, increase the font size

In addition, you should stretch your pectoral and trapezius muscles daily as a countermeasure to the stooped posture that you are forced to adopt during the day. It is also advisable to purchase some laptop accessories to help you adopt a better working posture.