Type a Lot? How to Avoid Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If you are a web developer, or just spend a lot of time in front of your computer typing, then you have increased risk of developing repetitive strain injuries (RSI). According to Wikipedia, RSI is:

…the most recent manifestation of illness concepts that link use of the arm to injury or disease. Prior to typewriters or computers there was the concept of "writer’s cramp".

The basis for this illness concept is the idea that one can overuse a tool, such as a computer keyboard or musical instrument in a way that causes tissue damage leading to pain.

The most common RSI injury is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and if you develop it, you might find yourself looking for another line of work. So it is important to take precautions to minimize your risk and prevent this from happening to you.

Recently, we came across a great piece of free software called Workrave, which helps you prevent RSI via a series of regular reminders for suggested micro-breaks and rest breaks. And if that isn’t enough, there are a series of helpful exercise tips that are given during rest breaks so that you can relax the rest of your body such as your eyes, neck, arms, and legs. And finally, Workrave presents you will simple statistics on how many keystrokes and mouse clicks you have made… You’ll be astounded! Workrave is also highly customizable, so you can set the duration and frequency of your breaks.

Currently, Workrave only works on the Windows and Linux operating systems. So if you are a Mac user, you might want to try using a similar piece of software called AntiRSI, which is also available free of charge.

So try it today. If you’re at risk for RSI, it is never to early to start using preventative measures.