According to a report by Asiaweek, on-the-job injuries are..........environment to reduce the side effects of working on the computer.

According to a report by Asiaweek, on-the-job injuries are no longer confined strictly to blue-collar workers. The modern-day office has become a danger zone and computers are largely to be blamed. Their increased use points to an increase in sick leave and doctors' visits. The new group of patients includes writers, secretaries and data-entry clerks. Anyone who spends hours at a keyboard can be at risk.

The most frequent complaints are wrist, hand and neck pain. These are typical signs of repetitive strain injuries. Another related condition is called carpal tunnel syndrome caused by pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. It results from repeated movements such as typing or using the mouse over a long period of time. Before computers came along, typists would stop to make corrections or change paper. These movements provided some relief. Now, typists rarely move from their computer, hitting as much as 21,600 words an hour. In severe cases, the pain shoots up a victim's arm. Some also develop neck and shoulder problems from holding their head in uncomfortable positions.

Computer users may also complain of eye strain, headaches, double vision and other eye problems caused by improper use of display screens. It may be a result of staring at the screen for too long. It could also be due to improper lighting and screen glare.

The best way to cope with such problems is to adopt healthier work habits. This means that the workers have to hold their wrists flat when they use the keyboard. They should also tap on the keys softly and take frequent breaks. Their feet should also be flat on the floor and their heads and backs straight. Some may be required to change their typing technique. In severe cases, taking a rest and some anti-inflammatory medication may be necessary.

There are also ergonomic hardware and software that blends well with a person's body or actions. Some examples of such ergonomic hardware are tilting display screens, detachable keyboards and specially designed keyboards that are suitable for the wrists.

Employers and managers should help employees create a comfortable working environment to reduce the side effects of working on the computer.

Summary: Anyone who spends hours at a computer is at risk of suffering from some side effects. Firstly, they might suffer from repetitive strain injuries or carpal tunnel syndrome. Some also develop neck and shoulder pain. They may also complain of eye problems and headaches. To overcome such problems, they should adopt healthier work habits such as holding their wrists flat and typing gently. They should also keep their feet flat on the floor and their heads and backs straight. Some may have to change their typing technique. For serious cases, taking a rest and some medication may help. Using ergonomic hardware may reduce injuries. Employers should create a suitable working environment to reduce these side effects.