Health

By Nicole Zongus

Being journalism students and future journalists, our bodies are subject to long hours at the computer and the health risks that are associated with it.  

Osteoarthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome are the two most common health issues students and professionals are facing as a result of computer use.  

Osteoarthritis is simply the “wear and tear” on one’s joints caused by repeated trauma and repetitious movements.  Computers are an obvious culprit of early onset osteoarthritis.  They require people to perform repeated motions and sit in static positions, often times hunched over. 

To offset osteoarthritis it is recommended to give joints a rest and take frequent breaks when using a computer for a prolonged period of time.  Stretching muscles and joints during those breaks is also recommended.  Sitting with proper posture will help relieve tension in the neck and shoulders, caused by the repetitive sitting position, and help delay the effects of osteoarthritis. 

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a compression of the median nerve in the wrist.  Computer use perpetuates carpal tunnel, which causes numbness and pain in wrists and hands.  Students and professionals suffer because of the stresses caused to the body in the way the computer is set-up, especially the keyboard. 

To prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, one should make sure their computer is set up correctly.  Most importantly, the keyboard should be set up so that the wrists cay lay flat while typing, and that the forearm is properly supported.  When using the mouse, one should make sure their wrists are relaxed, they are holding the mouse loosely, and not raising their pinkie finger. 

Among many professions, besides journalists, the growing demand for long hours sitting at a computer is causing a large increase in osteoarthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. 

When using a computer, be sure to apply good computer practices to save your body from these health issues linked to computer use.