Computer vs. Human: Getting the Upper Hand

How many of us work long hours at a computer? Use (or over-use) a Blackberry or Treo? Even with good ergonomic work environments, this seemingly “inactive” activity poses risks to our body. When we become so focused on work that we forget our bodies, we contribute to the cause.

Long periods of sitting in the habitual position of rounded shoulders and forward head intrudes on nerve pathways through the shoulders and arms, causing tingling in the hands.

For keyboard and mouse users, repetitive strain injuries (RSI) can show up as soreness in our forearms and hands, or as a feeling of tightness spreading from hands and wrists all the way to our elbows.

At worst, this can result in carpal-tunnel syndrome, with symptoms of tingling, swelling, and even loss of grip strength.

In This Issue

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Rituals to Relax and Re-connect

Computer vs. Human: Getting the Upper Hand

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The good news: bodywork does help. A study conducted at The Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine looked at the efficacy of massage in treating carpal tunnel syndrome. Researchers found that after four massage sessions, participants saw improvements in grip strength and a decrease in pain, anxiety, and depression.

This study verifies that massage – especially therapeutic, deep tissue techniques – can reorganize connective tissue fibers, break up scar tissue, and reduce or eliminate the causes of inflammation. Soft tissue work helps realign these tiny fibers of the tendons and sheaths, and the body can then heal itself – and ease or even eliminate carpal tunnel syndrome. Massage for the entire arm, shoulder, and neck also frees soft tissues where hidden tightness contributes to the problem.

In addition to bodywork, it's important to evaluate posture habits, work station positioning, and movement patterns. You should identify varied ways and positions to conduct your work. For example, moving the mouse from right to left, even during the same day, can help prevent fatigue and tissue failure. Wrist rests and keyboard trays are important, and regular stretching is essential.

Regular massage will help reduce connective tissue inflammation and prevents scar tissue from forming.

Portions of this article courtesy Cathy Ulrich, Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals

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This service is designed to relieve hand, wrist, arm, shoulder and neck tension for anyone who spends long hours at a computer keyboard and monitor - or from overtime typing on you Blackberry or Treo. Using a combination of trigger point therapy, stretching and deep tissue techniques, this treatment soothes aching muscles and relieves tension, allowing better movement and correcting postural issues.