By Roxanne Musselman, B.S.

Do you spend most of your day sitting in an office staring at a computer? If so, you are stressing your body more than you think. It may not seem like much, but computer work can take a toll on your body. Some of those minor discomforts seem like part of the job but may eventually take a turn for the worse. The long-term effects of days spent at the computer can include cumulative trauma syndrome, static fatigue syndrome and carpal tunnel syndrome.

The following are healthy habits to add to your day at the office to prevent such discomforts:

• Take short breaks throughout your day to stretch.
• Relieve tension in muscles by moving every hour or two.
• Properly adjust your workstation to fit your body comfortably.
• Take time to look away from your monitor every 20–30 minutes.
• Don‘t leave your legs and feet in one position; keep them moving.
• Keep your spine and head upright.
• Make sure lighting is adjusted to prevent glare.
• Adjust your keyboard so that the back is tilted higher than the front.

On your breaks take time to do some simple stretching. Sitting for long periods of time can lead to fatigue and decrease productivity. Some important areas to stretch are neck, wrists, lower and upper back, shoulders and legs. This will increase circulation and decrease stiffness. These short breaks during your day can be a tremendous benefit to your body.

For additional information please contact NIFS at 317.274.3432 or visit our Web site at www.nifs.org.