Force

What are some examples?

• Your finger and forearm muscles may become sore if you use a pointing device at a setting that is so sensitive that it is hard to control.  Hand and arm muscles must work continually to keep the device steady.

• Your shoulder and neck muscles are continually being used to lift the arm away from your body if the mouse is placed too far away.

• The muscles of the back can become strained if you must tilt your head back to view a monitor that is too high.

Although the muscle is usually the first point of pain when these injuries occur, the tendon, which attaches the muscle to bone, can also be affected. Localized pain, stiffness, and tenderness can signal that the muscle or tendon has been exerted beyond its capacity.

To help avoid these problems, properly arrange computer components on the work surface to maintain neutral postures and provide adjustable furniture to minimize the amount of time spent in one posture.