Glossary | Computer Injury

Computer injury often consists of damage to a ligament of tendon. Some form of sprain or tendonitis is present in virtually all repetitive strain computer injuries. Tendons of the wrist flexor and extensor muscles and the intrinsic muscles of the hand are subject to overuse-induced computer injuries, including the very common tennis elbow.

Flexor retinaculum (wrist ligament) problems are a primary element of the most frequent computer injury, carpal tunnel syndrome. Restriction, inflammation, and swelling of this retinacular ligament narrows the space in the tunnel, often compressing the nerves and blood vessels.

The ligaments around the thumb joints can be subject to computer injury, particularly on the hand involved with use of the mouse. A case account in Tendon and Ligament Healing describes the author's treatment for a thumb ligament injury exacerbated by computer use.

A good ergonomic workstation set-up is important in prevention and rehabilitation for computer injury. Keyboard height and angle, proper screen height, and a well-designed chair are all essential. A basic factor for avoiding computer injury is keeping the wrist in a neutral position during usage. With long hours of computer usage common in occupational and other activities, avoidance and treatment of computer injury is a primary element of health maintenance.

Related topics:

• tennis elbow
• elbow tendonitis
• patellar tendonitis
• tendon and ligament healing