Correct and incorrect postures adopted by DSE users are illustrated below:
RIGHT: Correct posture shows spine in natural alignment.
WRONG: This slumped position reduces flow of oxygen to the brain, leading to tiredness, fatigue and loss of concentration.
Adopting the extreme position shown in the image above can soon lead to upper limb disorders / RSI and spinal damage.
The knees are strained and unsupported, the knees, hips, elbows etc. are not forming right angles, backache will soon ensue, and the neck may eventually develop ankylosing spondylitis, which is a type of arthritis.
Remember your 'ABC':
A - Adjust your chair
B - Break up tasks
C - Change your position and stretch
Consult IBM's online guide to healthy computing and the Safety Office's Code of Practice for Safe Use of VDUs and laptops for further information about safe and comfortable computer use.