[MACEP] laptops and ergonomics

[Mike Ely]

JeanineDuBois wrote:
> Hi again, folks!
> 
> I'm wondering if anyone is having neck and back issues with using a 
> laptop at a desk setting. Other than me, that is. When my hands and arms 
> are at the right height and angle, I have my head bent down all the 
> time. It's becoming a painful problem. I thought about creating a 
> skid-free wedge to put under the keyboard, so that the laptop screen is 
> a little better for my eye level (neck-wise). Any insights?

Jeanie,

First, try adjusting the angle of the screen so that it's pointing at 
your eyes with your head at the correct angle.  Also, be sure you aren't 
tensing your shoulders... I've seen more people do this than I care to 
think about - they start typing and within a few seconds, their 
shoulders are up around their ears.  Check your neck and shoulder 
tension every few seconds and relax appropriately.  Get into the habit 
of doing this for a while and soon your body will take over and do 
things the right way.

If this doesn't work, the other option would be to get an external 
monitor and set your laptop up to use it.  This is particularly 
appropriate in a situation where you use your laptop at the same desk 
day after day.

Cheers,
Mike