Do you sit still for long periods of time working at a computer? Our bodies were not designed for this. As a result, computing can lead to body strain and aching.

The American Physical Therapy Association suggests these tips to help relieve the strain of computing:

• Stand up every 20-30 minutes and do some gentle stretching.
• Keep your feet flat on the floor. Use a footrest if necessary.
• Avoid “hovering” or excessive tension in your arms and hands when you are using your keyboard.
• Keep your mouse at the same level as your keyboard and close to your body.
• Watch for lighting glare.
• Follow the 20-20-20 rule—blink 20 times and stare 20 feet away from your computer screen every 20 minutes.
• Avoid frequent neck turning and awkward neck positions.
• Keep your posture erect.
• Keep your trunk muscles strong.

Source: “Healthy Computer Use: Tips from Physical Therapists,” American Physical Therapy Association, www.apta.org.