Computer-Related Repetitive Stress Injuries (continued)

Finally, set a good example yourself. If you stare at a computer screen in dim lighting for hours without taking a break, kids will get the message that it's OK.

Many times, RSIs are caused by using the wrong tool for the job. Because most computer systems are designed for the body of a 25-year-old man, be sure to get chairs, monitors, input devices, and keyboards that are suitable for your kids' size.

Getting Ergonomic

Proper computer placement, correct typing and sitting positions, and well-designed furniture will make your computer environment ergonomic (which means to make equipment use less fatiguing and uncomfortable) and prevent RSIs.

In computer usage — as with other equipment — the goal is to decrease both force and repetition, to ensure adequate rest breaks, and to achieve good positioning and good support.

Computer furniture can prove to be an ergonomic hazard if it does not adjust to promote good posture and hand positions. Don't put your new computer on a discarded desk with an old kitchen chair pulled up to it because these products don't give proper support.

Go for maximum adjustability in the set-up — from the desk and chair height to the position of the keyboard relative to the elbows and trunk to the height of the monitor — because kids come in all different heights and sizes.

These guidelines will help you make your family's workplace ergonomically correct:

• Leg position: legs should be positioned comfortably, feet should be flat on the floor or on a footrest, with the legs and hips perpendicular (between 90 and 100 degrees) relative to the spine.
• Chair position: if the computer is used by more than one person, a chair that's comfortable is not the only consideration — you should be able to adjust its height, back angle, and armrest.
• Back position: the small of the back should be supported with an adjustable lumbar support.
• Wrist angle: wrists should be in a neutral position for typing or using the mouse, not overly flexed or extended. A wrist rest can keep the hands in the neutral position.
• Elbow angle: the angle of the elbows should be 90 degrees relative to the upper arms. The elbows should be close to the side of the body so kids won't bend their wrists to the side when typing.
• Monitor position: the top of the monitor screen should be aligned with the computer user's forehead. Kids should sit about 2 feet from the screen. If the monitor is used by the entire family, get one that is easily adjustable.
• Keyboard height: the keyboard should be about 27 to 29 inches above the floor, and adjustable so it can be higher for taller people and lower for shorter people.
• Foot position: feet should rest comfortably on the floor. A raised footrest can help smaller people attain an ergonomically correct position.

Some keyboards feature function keys arranged in a convenient circular format, rather than on the side or top of the keyboard in rows or columns. Many have a "curved" or split design that promotes what ergonomists believe is a more natural position for hands and wrists, with the palms turned slightly toward each other (a position knows as pronation), rather than flat relative to the keyboard. In addition, a trackball can be substituted for a mouse.