Combat Computer Crunch
by Jan Sopshier

Wendy Sears wrote an article for Helpful Hints in January of this year titled "Avoiding Those Back Pains." The article discussed ways to avoid back pains when using the computer. This month........I'm going a step further by including ways to operate your computer comfortably to avoid aches and pains to other body parts. Personally, my neck/shoulders/hands are always in a strain because of my poor computer posture habit.

It's true, computer users have a tendency to tighten their shoulders when typing away or using the mouse. In an article I read recently, almost all adult computer users start breathing 30 percent faster whenever they're on their computers, whether using one for work or recreation. For children, it's worse. Their respiration rate almost doubles, almost to the point of hyperventilation.

Not only do we breathe faster, our bodies become stiff due to tensed muscles. Even as I type this, I can feel my neck/shoulder muscles tighten. Does this sound like how you feel at times? Here's a few hints on how you can avoid computer crunches:

• Place your hands in your lap every few minutes and relax your shoulders at the same time.
• Every 30 minutes, stand up and stretch your arms over your head.
• Roll your head slowly and gently from side to side.
• Make a fist, open your hands, and then shake.

Though the list is short, it certainly does the trick. Doing these simple exercises when operating your computer may reduce the risk of carpal tunnel and neck/back disorders. After all, you're using the computer for a purpose and having achy body parts is the last thing you want. Hopefully, I will practice what I preach.