Set yourself up for healthy computing

[webnote]

 

 

Set yourself up for healthy computing

For those of us slaving away at the 'puter all day long, Macworld's got some ergonomic advice on how to set up a healthy workspace. You'll find the usual ergo recommendations here (quality chair, monitor at a good distance) but this bit on keyboards and wrist rests caught my eye:

Avoid propping up your keyboard on its retractable feet. Although that makes it easier to see the keys, it also forces you to bend your wrists. Also, beware of wrist rests: they help keep your wrists straight, but they put pressure on the nerves and tendons at the back of your wrist. Look for a wrist rest that's smoothly contoured and padded, and only use it during rest periods, not when you're typing.

Avoid propping up your keyboard on its retractable feet. Although that makes it easier to see the keys, it also forces you to bend your wrists. Also, beware of wrist rests: they help keep your wrists straight, but they put pressure on the nerves and tendons at the back of your wrist. Look for a wrist rest that's smoothly contoured and padded, and only use it during rest periods, not when you're typing.

I'm convinced my wrists owe their healthy existence to my split, ergonomic keyboard. What's your favorite piece of anti-RSI gear? Let us know in the comments. — Gina Trapani

Rearrange your workspace [Macworld]