Ergonomic and Safe use of mobile or smart phones devices for recreation or work can bring you great benefits if you adopt healthy Smartphone / Cell Phone and Texting habits by using them as while Driving, Traveling or on the Move. Awareness of local laws, correct posture, regular breaks and a proper adjustment of equipment can help prevent or relive occupational work stresses or disorders such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Back / Neck Pain or vision care when using Smartphone’s.

“SAVE A LIFE”
PLEASE USE HANDS FREE DEVICES FOR CELL / SMART PHONES WHILE DRIVING
&
NEVER TEXT WHILE DRIVING!

With more and more workers upgrading to Smartphone’s, and as Smartphone capabilities continue to improve, even the government is considering innovative ways to harness this advancing technology. Human factors/ergonomics researchers have evaluated the potential benefits of using Smartphone’s to enable online work.

Ergonomic and Safe use of mobile or smart phones devices for recreation or work can bring you great benefits if you adopt healthy habits by using them as while Driving, Traveling or on the Move. Awareness of local laws, correct posture, regular breaks and a proper adjustment of equipment can help prevent or relive occupational work stresses or disorders such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Back / Neck Pain or vision care when using Smartphone’s.

The typical mobile subscriber sends and receives more text messages than telephone calls, according to a recent trend report published by the Nielsen Company. The posture we assume while texting and e-mailing from mobile devices—using our thumbs to type, crunched over a tiny keyboard—is unnatural. That said, it only presents problems when we do it constantly without giving our body enough breaks. The term “Blackberry thumb” has been coined by the media and medical professionals to describe this phenomenon. This typically creates pain at the base or in the muscles of the thumb or wrist. The thumbs are not made to do such repetitive tasks in such a small area.

USE THE FOLLOWING TIPS TO AVOID DISCOMFORT WHILE TEXTING OR USING YOUR SMARTPHONE:

TIPS FOR TEXTING:

  • Reduce your keystrokes. More keystrokes equals more strain on your hands and thumbs—so keep your messages brief.
  • When possible, take advantage of word prediction or auto complete tools which can be used on your phone.
  • When selecting a device, pick one that has a full keyboard. Some models require you to tap the key twice or three times to select the letter you’d like. This increases repetition.
  • Use shortcuts. Shortcuts not only help you quickly get things done, but also reduce the need to scroll. You can find these shortcuts by referring to your user manual.
  • Use a neutral grip when holding the device. A neutral grip is when the wrist is straight, not bent in either direction.
  • Maintain an upright posture while texting. Avoid bending your head down and rounding your shoulders.
  • Rest the thumb by using alternative fingers.
  • The following ergonomic and safety tips will keep you healthy and pain-free when using your handheld device.

Text-messaging and miniature or keyboard functions can take their toll on the thumbs. “BlackBerry Thumb” is a commonly used term to describe a painful and debilitating tendonitis of the thumb tendons caused by repetitive use.

  • Limit your typing time to no more than 10-15 minute sessions.
  • Stretch often.
  1. Turn your palms up.
  2. Open the thumbs wide as if you are hitch-hiking.
  3. Using your other hand, gently push the thumb back until you feel a nice stretch.
  • Use a portable keyboard attachment when possible.
  • If using a stylus, use one with a larger grip handle.
  • Support your arms on pillows while typing.
  • Hold a pencil and use the eraser to push the keys to give your thumbs a break.
  • If your thumbs feel sore, use cold packs after typing. Take a break from using your thumb keyboard. Seek medical attention if the pain does not go away.

TIPS FOR KEYBOARD USERS:

  • Type using the pad of your fingertip. Avoid using the tip of your fingernails. This can create an awkward bent position for your thumb which can lead to possible discomfort.

TIPS FOR TOUCH SCREEN USERS:

  • Use your phone in a vertical position while typing; this will reduce the amount of reaching space your thumb will have to cover to push a key.
  • If you do have thumb or wrist pain, don’t plan to compensate with a stylus or pen as touch screens are heat sensitive and will not recognize anything but a fingertip.
FOLLOW THESE BASIC SMARTPHONE SAFETY TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR EXPERIENCE:

TO HELP PREVENT ACCIDENTS:

  • Do not use the phone at the wheel without hands free, and use this only
  • when safe.
  • Turn off the phone or silence these when you are driving.
  • When walking pay attention to your surroundings.

TO RELIEVE MUSCLE TENSION IN THE NECK:

  • Avoid holding the phone between the face and shoulder.
  • Use a headset microphone and auxiliary to avoid awkward postures.
  • Put the phone up to your chest to get the neck in line with back.

TO RELIEVE MUSCLE TENSION OF THE FINGERS:

  • Alternate between thumbs and other fingers to type.
  • Keep wrists straight and relaxed to hold and use the device.

TO RELIEVE STRESS AT THE HEARING:

  • Adjust the brightness and size of fonts.

Take breaks between 2 and 3 minutes every 15 minutes and enjoy your free time silencing your mobile device.

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