AS technology advances our gadgets become smaller. We’ve moved from computers big enough to fill a room to desktop computers and now computers that are portable.

In just a few years, laptops have moved from being a luxury to being essential, quickly replacing the desktop computer. However, this convenient piece of machinery was designed for temporary use – work going beyond four hours should be done on a desktop computer.

While using the computer, you should be able to sit with your back straight, the monitor slightly below eye-level – therefore keeping the neck straight – elbows close to the body, and the wrists straight, that is neither flexing nor extending. A laptop does not easily allow this and the continuous incorrect use of laptops will lead to various injuries.

LAPTOP-RELATED INJURIES

Back pain: When using the laptop, the spine is hunched. With prolonged use, the vertebrae begin to degenerate, our neck-curve straightens causing nerve damage. This nerve damage may also cause headaches.

Swelling in fingers: The keys of the laptop may be described as cramped and awkwardly placed, with weaker fingers, such as the little fingers, being made to do excessive work as they are positioned above vowels. People also tend to keep their fingers in uncomfortable positions while using the laptop, which can cause pain in fingers and even swelling.

Wrist pain and/or injury: The use of a laptop does not allow users to keep their wrists straight. Over time, holding the wrist in awkward positions may cause pain, the development of ganglion cysts or more serious conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Vision fatigue: Laptops often have screens that are not as clear, stable or as bright as desktop monitors. Prolonged use of these may cause the eyes to become red and itchy, and may also result in blurred vision.

Though it would be ideal to minimise the prolonged use of laptops, it is not always practical, so here are some ways to use a laptop safely.

TIPS FOR SAFE USE OF LAPTOPS

Use a separate keyboard and mouse so that the laptop can be put on a stand and the screen opened just below eye level. If this is not possible, keep your hand relaxed with your fingers moving together when using a trackball or glide pad, do not hold your fingers up in the air while working.

Do not use your laptop on your lap; instead, place it on a stable base where there is support for your arms.

Take regular breaks. Five-minute breaks at least every half-hour will minimise the stress on your muscles and joints.

Chenee Davis has degrees in biotechnology and zoology, and occupational and environmental safety and health.