LAPTOP POSITIONING
Working From Home? Laptop Ergonomic Tips
March 24, 2020
When working from home and using a laptop, creating the right set up is essential to avoid straining your neck, shoulders and back and causing long-term musculoskeletal disorders
Despite their name, laptops are not ergonomically designed for using on your lap or without an external keyboard and mouse for long periods of time. If your screen is below eye height, you’re forced to continually look down. And because the human head is heavy, doing this for an extended amount of time (two hours or more) puts unnecessary strain on the neck.
An adjustable laptop stand solves this problem. Using Oripura with a keyboard and mouse means you have the flexibility to change the angle and raise the height of your laptop screen to a comfortable position.
When you’re using an adjustable stand with your laptop, follow our simple tips to avoid straining your eyes or causing musculoskeletal disorders.
- Keep your screen at least 50cm (about an arm’s length) away from your eyes, and at eye level.
- Make sure your back is supported and relaxed.
- Tuck your elbows next to your body and keep them bent at a 90° angle.
- Relax your shoulders, sit up straight and don’t crunch nor hunch.
Keyboard and mouse positioning
Your keyboard and mouse should be spaced to keep your wrists and hands aligned. This avoid injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow and mouse arm
- Place your keyboard at the same height as your elbows and forearms, and about 10cm away from the front edge of your desk. This provides support for your hands and keeps your wrists straight.
- Keep your mouse laterally in line with your keyboard. This creates space to support your wrists, which in turn prevents strain on your shoulders and arms.
- Make sure your wrists are straight and your hands aren’t angled inwards or outwards.
- Follow these steps to create an ergonomic workplace where you have the correct setup for your keyboard and mouse. This is key for working comfortably and avoiding hand and wrist pain.
Setting up a workstation - The Keyboard and mouse from Colebrook Bosson Saunders on Vimeo.
