How to Prevent RSI as a Programmer
Personally I have been close to real RSI twice. As a programmer and general computer enthousiast (read: nerd), I'm spending a lot of time behind a computer. Both for work and private.
Both times, the symptoms were:
- Numbness in both hands, sometimes a tingling feeling;
- Waking up with numb hands, which need stretching to feel normal again;
- General pain in fingers, hands and wrists.
These symptoms would increase when I was behind a keyboard more.
So how do you prevent RSI?
As said, I was close to RSI twice, the first time I implemented AntiRSI for Mac OS X, which helped me overcome RSI then.
The second time was set on just half a year ago, by working in Linux for long days. After realizing the problem was getting real, I started implementing AntiRSI for Gnome, which today is usable, though not finished.
So really, my first line of defense is always AntiRSI.
During micro pauses I relax my arms and hands, and stop staring at the screen for a little while. During work breaks I really try to go away from the computer, get some coffee, or talk to somebody. Both are indispensable, and both will noticeably help against RSI from day one.
But next to a break program, common sense healthy living helps a lot too: get some exercise, eat healthy, get enough sleep, etc.
Some tips
For some short term relief, the following helps:
- Don't use the keyboard for a while;
- Wash hands with warm water, or take a shower.
But to really prevent RSI, I find the following things important:
- Always use AntiRSI or similar program so you actually take regular breaks;
- Get some form of exercise, anything light is already good;
- Don't be behind your computer for longer periods of time, like half a day, for at least a few days per week;
- Prefer to type on a comfortable keyboard and a good screen;
- Keep good posture while working;
- Get enough sleep.
But of-course, I'm not a medical expert, and if these things don't help, or your symptoms are really severe, please go and visit your doctor.
Last modified: 2007-11-19 20:16 GMT