Problems Experienced by Arthritics when using a ComputerArthritis is a leading cause of work disability, and those with the
disesase may have difficulty performing physically demanding jobs, and
may select jobs that appear less strenuous but require intensive
computer use.
Led by Nancy A. Baker of the University of Pittsburgh and funded by
the Western Pennsylvania Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, the study
involved 315 arthritis patients who completed a specially-designed
survey that contained questions on computer use, discomfort experienced
while using a chair, desk, keyboard, mouse and monitor, and problems
associated with each piece of equipment.
The results showed that many people with arthritis experience both
discomfort and problems that could lead to work limitations: 84 percent
of respondents reported a problem with computer use attributed to their
underlying disorder and 77 percent reported some discomfort related to
computer use. Of the three categories of disease, significantly more
respondents with FM reported severe discomfort, more problems and
greater limitations related to computer use than those with RA or OA.
“Because those with arthritis may experience pain and discomfort even
under ideal circumstances, it is not surprising that the prevalence of
respondents reporting discomfort with computer use is considerably
higher than the general population of computer users,” the authors note.
The authors point out that the ability to use a computer is one method
of preventing work limitations and eventual disability, as well as a
vital tool for both work and home activities. They conclude that
“health professionals must work with people with arthritis to identify
problems experienced during computer use and implement computer
workstation modifications to ensure safe, effective, and comfortable
use of all computer equipment.”
Science Daily: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/04/090430144733.htm
Abstract: http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/122369172/abstract
|