The modern business world has seen a huge transition from using desktops to flaunting laptops. Due to its mobility, internet facilities like Wi Fi and its low pricing, laptops have become an integral part in the life of most youngsters. The younger generation kids spend most of their leisure time on their laptops watching movies, playing games, or even surfing.
Despite the growing popularity, it is important to understand that this contemporary gadget can also cause some serious health risk if not handled cautiously.
Problem 1:
The distance between the laptop screen and our eyes is very little. Secondly, screens are generally attached to the keyboard and cannot be adjusted to a greater extent.
Solution:
a) Place the laptop screen in such a way that windows are to the sides and not in front or behind the screen to reduce the glare to the eye.
b) Maintain an arm length or a distance of at least 20-30 inches between the eyes and the laptop.
c) Practice the 20 -20 rule. Every 20 minutes, turn your eyes away from the laptop and focus on an object about 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
d) Lastly, rest your eyes by closing it for a few minutes after every working hour.
e)Dr. P Suresh from Fortis Hospital says, “Sitting in a good posture, adjusting the brightness of the screen and relaxing the eye every twenty minutes can considerably reduce the strain caused to the eye while working on the laptop.”
Problem 2:
Most laptop computer keyboards are smaller than the desk top model and can cause wrist problems. Dr Kavita Tiwari, well known Physiotherapist from Sanjeevani hospital says, “Independent mobility of the muscles in the wrist while using the laptop causes wrist problems.”
Solution:
a) Take more frequent breaks while working on the laptops.
b) While working continuously for long hours, perform simple finger exercise to reduce the strain on the finger fans.
c) Spread the fingers of the both the hands while keeping the wrists straight. Hold for 2- 4 seconds. Perform this exercise after every 20 minutes. Dr Kavita Tiwari adds, “Individuals working on the laptops for longer duration should perform arm strengthening exercise regularly to reduce the impact on the wrist.”
Problem 3:
Even though laptops are designed for lap usage, using it on the lap can cause neck and shoulder strain.
Solution:
a) Avoid working while placing the laptop on the lap. Place the laptop on a table 27 to 29 inches high for maximum ergonomic comfort.
b) Try to maintain the angle between the arm and forearm at 90 degrees. If the angle is less than 90 degree, adjust the seat level.
c) Stand up and walk around or perform simple stretching exercises after every few hours.
d) Dr.Kavita Tiwari says, “Working on a laptop placed on the lap causes continuous flexion of the muscles in the neck that causes pain. Laptops should be placed at eye levels to reduce the strain on the neck.”
