Laptop Ergonomics
The design of laptops violates
the basic rules of ergonomics. As a result of its compact design with the
screen and keyboards connected, laptops create special problems for ergonomics.
Because both the screen and keyboard are in a fixed position, it is difficult
to position the screen and keyboard properly to avoid both neck and wrist
strain.
It is important to consider
how often the computer will be used. Occasional use will pose fewer problems while
full-time usage requires the user to pay more attention to the ergonomic
arrangement of the computer and work station.
Posture at your laptop is
another issue to consider. Essentially, laptop usage is a trade off between
poor neck posture and poor wrist posture.
- For occasional users, it is better to sacrifice
neck posture for wrist posture. Sitting in comfortable chair and placing
your laptop in your lap offers a neutral wrist position. Angling the
screen will allow you to see with the least amount of neck strain.
- Full-time users, those who use a laptop at work
or as their main computer, should elevate the laptop to reduce neck strain
and connect a separate keyboard and mouse to avoid wrist strain.
Dimensions of your laptop
are also important. Laptops with larger screens typically ease eye strain,
however, in situations where the laptop is frequently moved, greater size and
weight can also pose problems for users. Smaller laptops typically have smaller
keyboards and this should be taken into account as well. Laptops with keyboards
smaller than 75% of a regular computer greatly increase the risk of wrist
strain.
Weight of the laptop and
accessories is also a key factor for ergonomics. For laptops that exceed a
weight of 10 pounds, rolling carry-on type bags are recommended. For computers
weighing less than this a shoulder bag is a good fit.
General Ergonomic Tips for Laptop
Users
- Shoulders should be at your sides with arms bent
at a 90 degree angle and wrists straight.
- Use a light touch when typing or using the mouse.
- If possible, use a chair without armrests, or if
you do have armrests, be sure they do not obstruct arm movements.
- Consider using secondary function or short-cut
keys instead of the mouse.
- Raise the screen to eye level when reading for
long periods of time.
- If working at a table or surface that is too
high for proper typing, try tilting the laptop toward you using an empty
binder or reclining your chair to help improve arm postures.
- Be sure to take breaks and alter your posture.
Frequent short breaks where you can move around and change positions are
preferable over fewer long breaks.
- Your elbows should be level with or slightly
higher than your keyboard.
- Avoid resting wrists on your work surface while
typing.
- When looking at the screen tuck your chin down.
This keeps your head and neck more balanced over the spine.
- Elevate your computer off the work space so that
you don’t have to bend your neck to see the screen.