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Long live the computer

Are you reading comfortably?

The machine you are looking at – PC, laptop, tablet or smartphone – may appear shiny and new, but its principle function of inputting and outputting information is hundreds of years old. In fact, this year we are celebrating the 440th anniversary of the world’s first typewriter.

The use of the computer as you know it exploded in the 1970s and 80s as more and more people used PCs for work. With it came a massive increase in reported pain and injury of the neck, arms and hands. Coincidence? This is where the debate lies.

Over the last few decades various diagnoses have been attributed to these injuries, such as: Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI), Occupational Overuse Syndrome (OOS) and Cumulative Trauma Disorder (CTD) – but a report written by MedHealth doctor Robert Sellars explains that there is minimal evidence that external interventions such as computers, screens and chairs have any effect on the frequency of work related disorders. Instead, Dr Sellars argues that it’s psychological risk factors that have the biggest impact on our health.

In his report for MedHealth ‘Why do I have to put my computer screen there?’ Dr Sellars reveals that in 13 randomised controlled trials involving approximately 2500 workers:

  • There was only moderate-quality evidence suggesting that the use of an arm support with alternative mouse may reduce the incidence of neck and shoulder injuries
  • There was also low-quality evidence suggesting that other ergonomic interventions do prevent work-related injuries of the upper limb and neck

In his report Dr Sellars notes that most research into musculoskeletal problems amongst computer users also looked at the influence of psychosocial variables, which had a significant effect on health:

  • High job demand, low decision autonomy, time pressure, mental stress, job dissatisfaction, high workload and lack of support were all risk factors
  • Increasing hours of computer usage were consistently associated with musculoskeletal disorders
  • A Malaysian study also found psychosocial work factors to be the most influential in resulting musculoskeletal discomfort
  • An Estonian study confirmed the influence of psychosocial risk factors and noted “…presenting computer use as a serious health hazard may modify health beliefs in a way that is unhelpful”

“Work stress and previous injuries are the most important factors in determining how much the aches and pains of daily life bother you,” explains Dr Sellars. “It’s fine to experiment with your workplace ergonomics to see if that helps. However, do take stock of how you are coping with your job, how much control you have over your work tasks and how well you get on with bosses and colleagues.”

To download the MedHealthdoctors full white paper report, please click here.

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