Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD) can range from general aches and pains to more serious Problems. Medical practitioners do recommend that all the users who use computers regularly should report signs and symptoms as early as possible to prevent serious injury or permanent damage. The most commonly noticed signs and symptoms of Musculoskeletal Disorders associated with computer use are as follows:

Musculoskeletal Disorders :Signs and Symptoms

1. Numbness or a burning sensation in the hand
2. Reduced grip strength in the hand
3. Swelling or stiffness in the joints
4. Pain in wrists, forearms, elbows, neck, or back followed by discomfort
5. Reduced range of motion in the shoulder, neck, or back
6. Dry, itchy, or sore eyes
7. Blurred or double vision
8. Aching or tingling
9. Cramping
10. Loss of color in affected regions
11. Weakness
12. Tension stress headaches and related ailments

Musculoskeletal Disorders can be caused by any of the following factors:

1. If the user maintains an unnatural or unhealthy posture while using the computer
2. If the lower back support is inadequate for the user
3. If the user continues to sit in the same position for an extended period of time
4. If the set up of the workstation is Ergonomically poor.

It should be noticed that all these symptoms might not necessarily lead to an Musculoskeletal Disorders However, if the user experiences any of the above symptoms, he/she should make an evaluation of their working positions as well as the layout of their workstation.

Musculoskeletal Disorders :Types

The different types of Musculoskeletal Disorders are as follows:

• Repetitive Stain Injury
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Other Ergonomic Problems

Musculoskeletal Disorders : Preventive Methods

It is always better to take precautions to avoid MusculoskeletalDisorders than to treat them after you get affected. Some general precautions include:

1. Taking regular breaks from working at your computer – a few minutes at least once an hour
2. Alternating work tasks like mixing computer tasks with non computer tasks alternately to avoid strain
3. Regular stretching to relax your body
4. Using comfort equipment such as footrests, wrist/palm rests, and document holders if required
5. Keeping the mouse and keyboard at the same level
6. Avoiding gripping your mouse too tightly – it is always recommended to hold the mouse lightly and click gently
7. Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts for applications you regularly use like Ctrl+S to save and Ctrl+P to print (to avoid overusing the mouse).

As discussed earlier, ensure that your workstation is set up correctly otherwise may lead to Muscoskeletal Disorders. Normally, it includes the monitor, keyboard, mouse, seating, desk, and where appropriate, footrest (to help you rest your feet flat if they don’t reach the floor), wrist rest, and document holder.