Online classes have become popular all over the world, as many prefer this setup for various reasons. Many students work and study at home simultaneously, and they try hard not to compromise either their school or work.
For students in universities and colleges in the United States, they are offered a wide range of online courses from undergraduate to doctorate levels. Classes are conducted through mobile apps, e-mails, learning videos, modules, and websites.
But too much sitting in front of the computer had the students complain about various discomforts, especially experiencing back pains.
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - AUGUST 25: Goolsby Elementary School fourth-grader Luca Conrad, 10, takes an online class at her home during the first week of distance learning for the Clark County School District amid the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on August 25, 2020, in Las Vegas, Nevada. CCSD, the fifth-largest school district in the United States with more than 315,000 students, decided to start the school year with a full-time distance education instructional model as part of its Reopening Our Schools Plan due to health and safety concerns over the pandemic. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
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What is Bad Posture?
A bad posture is characterized by an overly bent spine, slumped shoulders, and awkwardly bent or turned arms and wrists. People tend to have bad posture when they spend hours in front of computers, pounding keys and staring at the monitor.
According to research, the design of computers and laptops can cause bad posture, and excessive time spent in front of them potentially causes adverse physical conditions, like stress, headaches, ad muscle pains. Experts recommend a 90-degree angle for the knees, waist, and elbows while using the computers.
The pressing health concerns surrounding online classes, as well as work from home setup, has prompted experts in computer ergonomics to tackle about making the environment fit for better performance and reduced risk, injuries, and muscle fatigue.
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Tips on Easing Backpains
Arrange the study area.
This is done by adjusting the chair, making sure that it can support the back; adjust the monitor or laptop screen, ensuring that it is at the head or eye level; and use laptop stands and make sure that wrists are not awkwardly bent.
Moreover, position both keyboard and mouse properly, use document folders for neck posture. Also, use binders that allow for the wrist and body alignment to prevent strain and do not place a pillow below the laptop as it could damage the air circulation in the device.
Adjust body positions and movements
Adjust body positions and movements accordingly to promote good posture while using a desktop or laptop. Make sure to sit straight to maintain vertical alignment of the shoulders, ears, and waist.
To avoid muscle tension, do not type laboriously on the keyboard and do not forget to shift positions or allow movement on the left hand, and also take breaks for at least 20 minutes so that the muscles on the hands and the whole body can relax.
Adjust study schedule
Develop a study schedule that manages your time correctly and to avoid muscle and body strain. Avoid spending more than four hours in front of the screen by dividing tasks into small but considerable chunks of work.
For example, the study schedule may include research before the manual task of writing notes for the next two hours, but also incorporating breaks within. If possible, engage in some healthy distractions like playing with pets or closing your eyes for a few minutes.
Read More: Working from Home Might Be Bad for Your Mental Health
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