You & Your Computer
Do you have a healthy relationship with your computer ?
Do you work more than 4 hours per WEEK at a computer or mobile device ?
This program presents the strategies to prevent repetitive strain, injury or pain in the areas of hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder, neck, back, and eyes of those who work more that 4 or 5 hours a week at computer related tasks.
NOTE : Individuals experiencing repetitive strain injuries should also seek medical treatment / therapy. (This program is aimed at prevention rather than therapy.)
Part 1 - Risk Basics
This identifies your risk profile and strategies for preventing repetitive strain, based upon researchers' recommendations for a wholistic, systems approach in order to most effectively prevent computer-related repetitive strain.
TOPICS include :
- the pertinent factors from within the 7 broad categories of demonstrated risk ( workstyle, computer related factors, ergonomics, occupational and personal stress, individual stress response profile, strength and flexibility, and body awareness )
- identification of your personal risk factors pattern and drafting your prevention (action) plan
- introduction to self-awareness skills and prevention activities
Part 2 - SKILLS TRAINING
Build on your action plan and begin developing strong lifetime skills which decrease risk, including the techniques recommended by researchers at the Healthy Computing Laboratory (San Francisco State University).
TOPICS include :
- muscle awareness
- micro and macro muscle "breaks"
- focus of attention
- cognitive stress management and the Quieting Response
- computer workstation body mechanics
- stretching and strengthening
- decreasing faulty muscle bracing patterns
- relaxation and regeneration
Part 3 - Muscle Tension Biofeedback, on a 1:1 basis
Further your skills using instantaneous muscle tension biofeedback (monitoring position and muscle tension levels) to decrease the tension and strain during computer related tasks.
Two private sessions are recommended.
FURTHER INFORMATION :
If you wish more information or have any further questions, do not hesitate to e-mail ksomers@uoguelph.ca or call Kathy Somers at 519 824-4120, ext. 52662. Please leave a message so I can return your call.