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Any ideas? Preferences? My hands/elbows scream out in pain, but they'd be happy to just mumble in gratitude.
And for those who are having monitor-related eye problems, as I was -- try eyebright (which is an herb). I've found it very helpful.
I had pain in my right arm from using the mouse so much. I replaced it with a track ball and I have no problems at all anymore. I've been using the track ball for 3 years now. It was a lifesaver!
Keeping fit by lifting weights, three times a week, can also help.
To that, I say, "Hear, hear!" (Although I'd say 4 days a week, but who's counting? ;)
A few years ago, I was on my way to carpal tunnel, pain and all -- using the mouse started to hurt in the forearm. But for other reasons, also related to the sedentary position of webdevelopment work, I started going to a gym and got seriously into the fitness lifestyle. Changed everything. Now it's part of my life and I'll never go back.
And now there's not any hint of ergo-issue pain problems.
Not only is working out recommended for this situation, but given how we webdev types usually sit all day behind computers, it's probably the best thing we need to do for overall physicality anyway.
For those people that are having finger problems: I would suggest paying attention to how you hold the phone. I started losing circulation in my fingers and my shoulders would hurt all the time. I noticed it all stopped as soon as I bought a headset for my phone.
I also noticed that my eyes were always in pain at night after being on the computer all day. I bought a LCD monitor and the eye strain has stopped.
My main problem is how I sit in my chair. I usually sit indian-style or on my leg. This has stretched out my knees and actually moved my knee cap on an angle. (I know, gross). I went to the joint specialist for this because every time I walked down the stairs, my knee would creak. He gave me a knee brace that I have to wear while I'm working out. I'm much aware now on how I sit in my chair. It's so hard not to sit like that when that's the most comfortable for me. Oh well.. 29 now - don't want knee problems when I'm 60.
See other posts in this thread for stuff to take to keep joints etc. in better shape - if I'd been taking it all along, I'd still probably be able to do indian-fashion on the floor!
Over 5 years ago I spent $500.00 on a cheap ergonomic chair from Relax the Back. If you are going to live in a chair it is well worth the money.
Dynaflex powerball. This gyroscope ball was designed for people with carpal tunnel and tendonitis. It is a great way to exercise because it is fun, in fact it is a bit addictive. Only about $20.00
Armaid, I just bought one of these so I can't comment yet. About $100.00 and they offer a 30 day refund. It is for massage of your arms and or hands. What I learned at phyisical therapy is that toxic waste builds up in your joints. Massage helps to get rid of it.
Theraband has a web site that illustrates lots of exercises that can be done with the Theraband stretch straps. Cheap and portable, I used these while going to physical therapy also.
Have fun with the Powerball, it may be a bit difficult to get started at first, even with the string. Now after some practice I can get it started by rolling it down my leg.
