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Subject:Wrist problems, RSI From:Richard Farley <rtfarley -at- IX -dot- NETCOM -dot- COM> Date:Fri, 29 Mar 1996 04:58:02 -0800
Friends,
I hope this bit of insight gives something of value back to the list that
has given me so much.
Some time back I studied biofeedback and learned how important it is to tune
into the subtle messages that our bodies give us, and the role we play in
our own healing processes. Believe me when I say this is not some mumbo
jumbo but fascinating scientific fact. Anyway, for those who are suffering
with RSI (repetitive strain injury), and especially those noticing the first
signs of discomfort DON'T IGNORE IT! Seek help if need be, but make some
adjustments to your work habits.
When I use the mouse I keep my wrist stationary for the most part, slightly
flexing at the elbow and shoulder for movement. I made a drop down mouse
platform by adding a board to the side of my diskette shelf that sits beside
me. A couple of small hinges allows this to swing up out of the way when I
need something and swing the mouse pad down to the same height as my drawer
mounted keyboard. The mouse is on a pad that also supports my wrist in a
comfortable manner. I use a trackball some at work, and don't care much for
it. My notebook has a glidepoint which I love. I slide my finger across it
and tap for clicking. Easier on the working extremity. One important habit
to cultivate. Learn to breathe from your abdomen, not your thorax. In other
words, let your stomache expand and contract to move the breath. Thoracic
breathing (raising and lowering the chest and shoulders) significantly adds
to fatigue and tension. Believe it or not, much of the damage we do to our
wrists starts in the shoulers.
You can learn more from doing a web search on stress, and/or biofeedback.
There is a list called PSYPHY (psycho-physiology) and I can provide the URL
if anyone needs it. Some of the information is heavy on the clinical
terminology, but some is understandable for us lay folks.
I hope this helps.
Richard Farley
rtfarley -at- ix -dot- netcom -dot- com
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"That writer does the most, who gives his reader the most knowledge,
and takes from him the least time." Colton (1780-1832)
Richard Farley
R. Farley Consulting - Technical Writing & Business Communication
2728 El Pasado Dr.
Modesto, CA 95354
rtfarley -at- ix -dot- netcom -dot- com
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