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Teachers & RSI
"I started preparing teaching materials on my computer before the start of first term. I hadn't been shown how to set up my computer safely - it was on an old school desk and I sat on an ordinary school chair. After a few weeks of intensive computer use I was experiencing pain in my neck, arms and hands. My workload was very heavy and I felt unable to take time off because of my commitment to my students, so things went from bad to worse. Now I have chronic RSI. I only wish I could go back and get things right."
Most teachers use a computer in the course of their work - to develop teaching materials, communicate professionally, and to teach their students the requisite ICT component of the curriculum. It is important to be aware of the risks of musculoskeletal injuries which can result from computer use and take action immediately if you're affected by any of the symptoms. The main symptoms of computer-related injury are:
- Fatigue, tightness, discomfort, stiffness, burning or loss of strength in the hands, wrists, fingers, forearms or elbows during or after computer use. You may feel the need to massage your hands, wrists and arms.
- Pain, numbness or tingling in the upper back, shoulder, neck, arms or hands associated with using a computer. Headaches are often a feature of computer-related injury.
These injuries are usually called Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) or Occupational Overuse Syndrome (OOS). Women have a higher rate of injury than men, possibly due to their smaller frame (which often forces women to reach across the desk to operate a computer). The main risk factors in developing these injuries are repetitive actions and static load of muscles, in combination with awkward posture, poor work organisation, stress and cold. No one would willingly give themselves such a life-changing injury, especially knowing it would result in chronic pain and impose severe limitations on their ability to carry out basic daily activities and work. Prevention is the easiest and most effective way to deal with this debilitating set of conditions, but unfortunately, people often do not take action until they are personally affected.
Computer-related injuries are cumulative - symptoms are often mild in the first instance, improving overnight or with rest. Over time, they become increasingly severe, possibly disturbing sleep, and not improving with rest. Suggested actions to prevent or mitigate early signs of RSI conditions are:
- At work have your computer workstation (or computer setup) assessed by your OH&S adviser. Review your computer setup at home and follow the guidelines on ergonomic adjustments to computer workstations. Refer to the guidelines in Checklist for Safer Computing on this web site.
- Improve your posture while using the computer, take regular breaks, and make sure you’re warm, relaxed and comfortable at your computer. Pace your work to reduce overload and stress.
- Avoid excessive use of the mouse and use keyboard shortcuts to cut down on mousing. See Keyboard Shortcuts and Your Mouse Can Be a Real Pain for tips. Ideally, learn to touch type and obtain training in the computer packages you use most. This will help you avoid unnecessary keystrokes and mousing, and reduce frustration while using the computer.
- For advice on the risks associated with laptop computers see our article on this web site Safer Laptop Computing.
