When Technology is Toxic
“Computers are a part of life, and a great one at that,” Carly Knobloch, founder of tech-focused web series Digitwirl, tells PINK. Not so great? The fact that overuse of technology can have negative effects on health.
One-fourth of computer-related injuries afflict the head, neck, or face, with one-third affecting the shoulders, wrists, or arms, according to the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. To reduce back pain, Knobloch recommends investing in a chair with proper lumbar support to ease strain on your lower back.
Staring at a computer screen for hours can make eyes sore and strained. Free programs can help, like F.lux. It dim your screen’s light once the sun has gone
down wherever you are. It’s easy on the eyes, which can help you fall asleep faster after working into the wee hours.
To avoid wrist injuries or pinching the nerves in your shoulders, experts advise keeping elbows at 90 degrees and using wrist rests made of gel, foam or filled with beads when typing.
Knobloch suggests apps that promote healthy use of technology, like Workrave and AntiRSI, which alert you when it’s time to take a break, stretch and walk away from the computer.
Bonus PINK Link: Now that you’ve taken care of physical stress, here’s how to deal with emotional stress.
By Brittani Banks
“Technology: it brings you great gifts with one hand,
and it stabs you in the back with the other.” Carrie P. Snow
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