Ergonomics is used to make equipment and furniture that works best for humans. Having ergonomic equipment helps prevent people from getting carpal tunnel syndrome, neck pains, back aches, etc.

There are several things you can do to make your computer environment more ergonomic. The first is setting your keyboard at a good height. The general recommended height for the keyboard is about 25 inches from the floor. You should have an adjustable height chair so you can set it where your arms are basically bent at 90 degrees at the elbow when typing.

A wrist pad in front of the keyboard will help support your wrists if you do not type with your wrists in the air. If you do not have a wrist pad, you can make one by rolling/folding a hand towel and using it in front of the keyboard. (I quite often do this when in motels.)

Today’s laser mice can operate on any surface, but most people find more comfort using a mouse pad. Mouse pads come in several styles. I like the cloth-covered ones best, as the mouse has a better feel to me, and I can comfortably rest my wrist on it. You can get mouse pads that have a raised cushioned area to support the wrists.

You want your screen at eye level for the least strain on your eyes. When using a laptop instead of a stand-alone screen, adjust the screen so it is at the same angle as your face. You will look down at laptop screens.

The keyboard itself can have angles in it to be more comfortable, but even with flat keyboards there are adjustments on the back so you can angle them to make it easier on your fingers. Laptop keyboards are limited to the laptop, but when you get cooling units to go under them, some will put the laptop at angles.

As you work at the computer, occasionally stop and stretch your hands and fingers and move your head and neck. After a couple hours on the computer, make sure you get up and move around some, even if it is just to walk down the hall.

Thanks Evelyn for the question.

Send your questions to Dwight Watt at dwight@dwightwatt.com. He teaches at a technical college in northwest Georgia and does consulting work for businesses and individuals. His website is dwightwatt.com.