2. Computers Today
Computers are a big part of todays society.
Nearly every business and industry uses some
type of computer system.
Even though computers offer many
advantages there’s always a down side.
3. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is pressure on the median nerve
-- the nerve in the wrist that supplies feeling and
movement to
parts of the hand.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is common in people who perform
repetitive motions of the hand and wrist. Typing on a computer
keyboard is probably the most common cause of carpal tunnel.
The condition occurs most often in people 30 to 60 years old, and is
more common in women than men.
4. Symptoms
•Numbness or tingling in the thumb and next two or three fingers of one or
both hands
•Pain extending to the elbow
•Pain in wrist or hand in one or both hands
•Problems with fine finger movements (coordination) in one or both hands
•Weak grip or difficulty carrying bags
•Wasting away of the muscle under the thumb (in advanced or long-term
cases)
5. Treatments
One way to treat carpal tunnel is to wear a splint or
brace.
A more drastic way would be to undergo carpal tunnel
release.
Carpal tunnel release is a surgical procedure that cuts
into the ligament that is pressing on the nerve. Surgery is
successful most of the time, but it depends on how long
the nerve compression has been occurring and its
severity.
6. CVS
(not the drugstore)
Computer Vision Syndrome is the name for eye problems
caused by computer usage.
CVS is not one specific eye problem, the term
encompasses a whole range of eyestrain and pain
experienced by computer users.
50% and 90% of people who work at a computer screen
have at least some symptoms of eye trouble.
7. Causes
Computer vision syndrome is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome and
other repetitive stress injuries. It can occur if you carry out the same
motion over and over again.
Like other repetitive stress injuries,
computer vision syndrome can get worse
the longer you continue the activity.
8. Symptoms
You may have CVS if you have
Blurred vision
Double vision
Dry, red eyes
Eye irritation
Headaches
Neck or back pain
9. No Cure?
Working on a computer is more challenging to your eyes than
reading a book or piece of paper, because a computer screen also
adds the elements of screen contrast, flicker, and glare.
The problem for most people with CVS or carpal tunnel is that they
make a living doing the very thing that causes their health problems.
Some computers like the HP TouchSmart PC don’t have a keyboard
or mouse, the monitor is touch screen. This could solve carpal tunnel
for computer workers.
Maybe computer designers will find a way to prevent CVS too.
