Computer-induced medical problems

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Computer-induced health problems can be an umbrella term for the various problems a computer user can develop from extended and incorrect computer use. A computer user may experience many physical health problems from using computers extensively over a prolonged period in an inefficient manner. The computer user may have poor etiquette when using peripherals, for example incorrect posture. Reportedly, excessive use of electronic screen media can have ill effects on mental health related to mood, cognition, and behavior, even to the point of hallucination. [1] Prevention methods include physical activity breaks, hydration, ergonomic posture, and regular eye exercises such as the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet or 6 meters away for 20 seconds). [2] [ better source needed ]

Contents

Common computer-induced medical problems

Notable physical medical problems that can arise from using computers include carpal tunnel syndrome, computer vision syndrome, and musculoskeletal problems. [3]

Carpal tunnel syndrome

The medical problem associated with computer-related work is carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). CTS is a stress-related injury caused by repetitive movement of joints, especially the wrist, and can lead to numerous musculoskeletal problems. It has become very common among Computer professionals due to poorly placed computer components and extensive typing over a long period. Studies conducted show that one in eight computer professionals experience CTS. [4] This study was conducted over 21 companies and the majority of affected people said that they experienced acute and in some cases severe pain due to CTS. The main cause of CTS seems to be debatable, however, with many sources saying that the syndrome is predominantly caused by the acute positioning of the wrist while typing and this problem is exacerbated by the need for the user to be crouching towards the screen while typing. Different research conducted cites the mouse as being the main cause of CTS [4] as it was found that among the fingers the right thumb was revealed to be more susceptible to CTS due to the acute position of the thumb while using the mouse. CTS, although prevalent, seems to be very difficult to ameliorate or cure due to the consistency in the design of computer components such as the mouse and the keyboard, but some companies are leading the way with technologies such as touch screen monitors which will reduce stress on the hand and wrist. Employers in major companies are also taking measures to ameliorate CTS by implementing frequent work breaks and work rotation procedures to ensure that employees aren't working on a single computer for hours on end "a higher level of intensity of computer work results in higher risk for CTS". [5] which causes severe stress on the joints and thus can lead to CTS

Cumulative trauma disorders are caused by "people who sit at PC workstations or visual display terminals in fast-paced, repetitive keystroke jobs. Their fingers, wrists, arms, necks, and back may become so weak and painful that they cannot work". [6] Many people do not think about this when they look at their computer while using it. It is important to note that everything down to the keyboard has a design process behind it focusing on user interface. [7]

Computer vision syndrome

In many cases, frequent computer users develop computer vision syndrome, which is a degenerative eye problem which can result in severely reduced eyesight (myopia), blurred vision, overall eye tiredness and even glaucoma. Computer Eye Syndrome is an umbrella term for many problems but the causes of these problems can be easily identified. When using a computer due to the size and setup of the monitor and components it is necessary for the user to be within at least two feet of the monitor when performing any type of computational work. This presents many problems especially in older monitors due to an elevated amount of monitor glare, poor display quality and insufficient picture display refresh rates. Although these problems are more evident in older computers the newer models are not free from these problems either. Studies have been conducted. [8] They state "Treatment requires a multidirectional approach combining ocular therapy with adjustment of the workstation" [8] which shows these problems are quite easily solved with minimal investment from computer manufacturers through producing higher quality monitors with better resolution and refresh rates. The most common form of computer vision syndrome is a condition termed dry eye, which results in itchy, sore and even the illusion that something is stuck in your eye. This condition is often caused by extensively long period looking at a computer screen.

Video screens have a design process for user interface. Video screens can cause eyestrain from prolonged viewing. Cathode ray tubes are what are used to display the information on your computer. These send off radiation. This is a concern that has been taken into account when designing better computer screens for user interface. [6] [7]

Musculoskeletal problems

Another medical issue caused by the use of computers is back and posture problems. These problems relate to musculoskeletal disorders caused by the need for the user to be crouched and hunched towards the monitors and computer components due to the design and positioning of these particular computer peripherals. This hunching forward of the user causes posture and back problems but is also the cause of severe and acute pain in the upper back, particularly pain in the neck and or shoulders. A study [9] was conducted where 2146 technical assistants installed a computer program to monitor the musculoskeletal pain they suffered and answered questionnaires on the location and severity of the pain. The study showed interesting results, as it detailed how in the majority of cases any pain suffered was aggravated and exacerbated by the use of computer peripherals like the mouse and keyboard but overall the pain did not originate from using computers. "Moreover, there seems to be no relationship between computer use and prolonged and chronic neck and shoulder pain". [9] This is a positive study for computer manufacturers but although the pain may not originate from computer peripherals there is no doubt that the pain is exacerbated by their use and this revelation alone should lead computer manufacturers to pioneer new technologies that reduce the risk of posture or musculoskeletal problems aggravated by the use of poorly designed and linearly designed computer peripherals.

In another study, [10] It was found that women are at a greater risk than men to develop musculoskeletal problems. Two explanations given were that "women appear to consistently report more neck and upper extremity symptoms than men", and that women may assume more taxing positions while working than men do due to differences in anthropometrics.

Sleep problems

More screen-time has been linked with shorter sleep duration, decreased sleep efficiency, and longer sleep onset delay. [11] When using any screen before bedtime, the blue light emitted disrupts the body's natural melatonin hormone production. [12] Melatonin is produced by the brain's pineal gland and controls the body's internal clock. [13] This clock is what is referred to as the body's circadian rhythm and it naturally is responsive to light. [14] Melatonin levels increase as the sun sets and remain at that increased state for the remainder of the night. As the sun rises, melatonin levels start to drop. This hormone reduction is what helps the body's natural rhythm wake up due to the bursts of natural sunlight. [13] The light screens emit are in a similar spectrum of sunlight, but the blue light emission is what human circadian rhythms are most sensitive to. Studies have shown that the blue wavelengths are closely correlated to those from sunlight, which is what helps the body keep in sync with the sunrise and sunset. [15] [ unreliable source? ] Therefore, using any screen prior to bedtime disrupts the body's production of natural bedtime hormones which can trick the brain to believe it is still daytime making it harder to fall asleep.

Mental problems

Public Health England said children who spend too long on the internet face social problems such as loneliness, depression and anxiety. [16]

According to Dr. Victoria Dunckley, excessive use of electronic screen media can have ill effects on mental health related to cognition, and behavior—and may even result in psychosis in the form of hallucination. [1] She calls this "Electronic Screen Syndrome" (ESS). She claims the root of these symptoms appears to be linked to repeated stress on the nervous system, making self-regulation and stress management less efficient. She says interacting with screens shifts the nervous system into fight-or-flight mode which leads to dysregulation as an inability to modulate one's mood, attention, or level of arousal in a manner appropriate to one's environment.

Apnea

Email apnea, also known as screen apnea, refers to the tendency to hold one's breath while engaging in some computer activities, particularly email writing. The term derives from sleep apnea, which involves repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. This phenomenon can exacerbate anxiety, as it often occurs during high-stress situations, leading to increased physical tension and mental strain. According to psychologists, high achievers and perfectionists are especially prone to email apnea due to a tendency to seek perfection in every email or text they send, which increases the stress around it and demands more focus. [17] Email apnea can result in sleep disturbances, decreased energy levels, and heightened feelings of depression and anxiety. [18]

Prevention

For many people, using a computer for several hours a day is indispensable as part of their job or personal needs, but there are some measures that can be taken to avoid or mitigate its negative effects on health: [19]

See also

Related Research Articles

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Repetitive strain injury</span> Muscular, skeletal, or nerve injury due to repetitive actions

A repetitive strain injury (RSI) is an injury to part of the musculoskeletal or nervous system caused by repetitive use, vibrations, compression or long periods in a fixed position. Other common names include repetitive stress injury, repetitive stress disorders, cumulative trauma disorders (CTDs), and overuse syndrome.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Sleep disorder</span> Medical disorder of a persons sleep patterns

A sleep disorder, or somnipathy, is a medical disorder affecting an individual's sleep patterns, sometimes impacting physical, mental, social, and emotional functioning. Polysomnography and actigraphy are tests commonly ordered for diagnosing sleep disorders.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Insomnia</span> Disorder causing trouble with sleeping

Insomnia, also known as sleeplessness, is a sleep disorder where people have trouble sleeping. They may have difficulty falling asleep, or staying asleep for as long as desired. Insomnia is typically followed by daytime sleepiness, low energy, irritability, and a depressed mood. It may result in an increased risk of accidents of all kinds as well as problems focusing and learning. Insomnia can be short term, lasting for days or weeks, or long term, lasting more than a month. The concept of the word insomnia has two distinct possibilities: insomnia disorder (ID) or insomnia symptoms, and many abstracts of randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews often underreport on which of these two possibilities the word refers to.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Carpal tunnel syndrome</span> Compression of the median nerve in the wrist

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a nerve compression syndrome associated with the collected signs and symptoms of compression of the median nerve at the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Carpal tunnel syndrome usually has no known cause, but there are environmental and medical risk factors associated with the condition. CTS can affect both wrists.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Sitting</span> Resting position of human body weight, primarily supported by buttocks in contact with objects

Sitting is a basic action and resting position in which the body weight is supported primarily by the bony ischial tuberosities with the buttocks in contact with the ground or a horizontal surface such as a chair seat, instead of by the lower limbs as in standing, squatting or kneeling. When sitting, the torso is more or less upright, although sometimes it can lean against other objects for a more relaxed posture.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Mucopolysaccharidosis</span> Medical condition

Mucopolysaccharidoses are a group of metabolic disorders caused by the absence or malfunctioning of lysosomal enzymes needed to break down molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). These long chains of sugar carbohydrates occur within the cells that help build bone, cartilage, tendons, corneas, skin and connective tissue. GAGs are also found in the fluids that lubricate joints.

Hypersomnia is a neurological disorder of excessive time spent sleeping or excessive sleepiness. It can have many possible causes and can cause distress and problems with functioning. In the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), hypersomnolence, of which there are several subtypes, appears under sleep-wake disorders.

Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is a condition resulting from focusing the eyes on a computer or other display device for protracted, uninterrupted periods of time and the eye's muscles being unable to recover from the constant tension required to maintain focus on a close object.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Tarsal tunnel syndrome</span> Compression of the tibial nerve in the foot

Tarsal tunnel syndrome (TTS) is a nerve compression syndrome or nerve entrapment syndrome causing a painful foot condition in which the tibial nerve is entrapped as it travels through the tarsal tunnel. The tarsal tunnel is found along the inner leg behind the medial malleolus. The posterior tibial artery, tibial nerve, and tendons of the tibialis posterior, flexor digitorum longus, and flexor hallucis longus muscles travel in a bundle through the tarsal tunnel. Inside the tunnel, the nerve splits into three segments. One nerve (calcaneal) continues to the heel, the other two continue on to the bottom of the foot. The tarsal tunnel is delineated by bone on the inside and the flexor retinaculum on the outside.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Musculoskeletal disorder</span> Pain in the muscular or skeletal systems

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are injuries or pain in the human musculoskeletal system, including the joints, ligaments, muscles, nerves, tendons, and structures that support limbs, neck and back. MSDs can arise from a sudden exertion, or they can arise from making the same motions repeatedly, or from repeated exposure to force, vibration, or awkward posture. Injuries and pain in the musculoskeletal system caused by acute traumatic events like a car accident or fall are not considered musculoskeletal disorders. MSDs can affect many different parts of the body including upper and lower back, neck, shoulders and extremities. Examples of MSDs include carpal tunnel syndrome, epicondylitis, tendinitis, back pain, tension neck syndrome, and hand-arm vibration syndrome.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Musculoskeletal injury</span> Damage of muscular or skeletal systems

Musculoskeletal injury refers to damage of muscular or skeletal systems, which is usually due to a strenuous activity and includes damage to skeletal muscles, bones, tendons, joints, ligaments, and other affected soft tissues. In one study, roughly 25% of approximately 6300 adults received a musculoskeletal injury of some sort within 12 months—of which 83% were activity-related. Musculoskeletal injury spans into a large variety of medical specialties including orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, emergency medicine and rheumatology.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Median nerve palsy</span> Medical condition

Injuries to the arm, forearm or wrist area can lead to various nerve disorders. One such disorder is median nerve palsy. The median nerve controls the majority of the muscles in the forearm. It controls abduction of the thumb, flexion of hand at wrist, flexion of digital phalanx of the fingers, is the sensory nerve for the first three fingers, etc. Because of this major role of the median nerve, it is also called the eye of the hand. If the median nerve is damaged, the ability to abduct and oppose the thumb may be lost due to paralysis of the thenar muscles. Various other symptoms can occur which may be repaired through surgery and tendon transfers. Tendon transfers have been very successful in restoring motor function and improving functional outcomes in patients with median nerve palsy.

This article is about physical therapy in carpal tunnel syndrome.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Digital detox</span> Process of not using digital devices

A digital detox is a deliberate break from digital devices to mitigate screen overuse and promote offline activities. Emerging in response to increasing technology use, the practice addresses concerns about screen addiction’s impact on health and mental well-being. Detox approaches range from setting limits on device usage to complete abstinence, sometimes supported by dedicated retreats or travel packages. Though digital detoxes have shown positive effects on focus, relationships, and overall well-being, they may also raise social pressures and fear of missing out (FOMO).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Ergonomic hazard</span> Physical conditions that may pose a risk of injury

Ergonomic hazards are physical conditions that may pose a risk of injury to the musculoskeletal system due to poor ergonomics. These hazards include awkward or static postures, high forces, repetitive motion, or insufficient rest breaks activities. The risk of injury is often magnified when multiple factors are present.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Forward head posture</span> Spinal condition

Forward head posture (FHP) is an excessively kyphotic (hunched) thoracic spine. It is clinically recognized as a form of repetitive strain injury. The posture can occur in dentists, surgeons, and hairdressers, or people who spend time on electronic devices. It is one of the most common postural issues. There is a correlation between forward head posture and neck pain in adults, but not adolescents.

Rounded shoulder posture (RSP), also known as “mom posture”, is a common postural problem in which the resting position of the shoulders leans forward from the body’s ideal alignment. Patients usually feel slouched and hunched, with the situation deteriorating if left untreated. A 1992 study concluded that 73% of workers aged 20 to 50 years have a right rounded shoulder, and 66% of them have a left rounded shoulder. It is commonly believed that digitalisation combined with the improper use of digital devices have resulted in the prevalence of sedentary lifestyles, which contribute to bad posture. Symptoms of RSP will lead to upper back stiffness, neck stiffness and shoulder stiffness. It can be diagnosed by several tests, including physical tests and imaging tests. To prevent RSP from worsening, maintaining a proper posture, doing regular exercise, and undergoing therapeutic treatments could be effective. If the situation worsens, patients should seek help from medical practitioners for treatments. If RSP is left untreated, chronic pain, reduction in lung capacity and worsened psychosocial health are likely to result.

The blue light spectrum, characterized by wavelengths between 400 and 500 nanometers, has a broad impact on human health, influencing numerous physiological processes in the human body. Although blue light is essential for regulating circadian rhythms, improving alertness, and supporting cognitive function, its widespread presence has raised worries about its possible effects on general well-being.

Email apnea is a term coined in 2007 by former Microsoft executive Linda Stone, meaning "a temporary absence or suspension of breathing, or shallow breathing, while doing email."

References

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  2. ↑ "Rx for Prolonged Sitting: A Five-Minute Stroll Every Half Hour". Columbia University Irving Medical Center. 2023-01-05. Retrieved 2024-12-18.
  3. ↑ "Computer-related injuries".
  4. 1 2 Andersen, J. H.; Thomsen, JF; Overgaard, E; Lassen, CF; Brandt, LP; Vilstrup, I; Kryger, AI; Mikkelsen, S (2003). "Computer Use and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A 1-Year Follow-up Study". JAMA. 289 (22): 2963–9. doi: 10.1001/jama.289.22.2963 . PMID   12799404.
  5. ↑ Ali, KM; Sathiyasekaran, BW (2006). "Computer professionals and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)". International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics. 12 (3): 319–25. CiteSeerX   10.1.1.1002.3294 . doi:10.1080/10803548.2006.11076691. PMID   16984790. S2CID   37270609.
  6. 1 2 O'Brien & Marakas, 2007, p. 553
  7. 1 2 O'Brien, James A.; Marakas, George M. (2011). Management Information Systems, 10e. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Irwin. ISBN   9780071221092.[ page needed ]
  8. 1 2 Blehm, Clayton; Vishnu, Seema; Khattak, Ashbala; Mitra, Shrabanee; Yee, Richard W. (2005). "Computer Vision Syndrome: A Review". Survey of Ophthalmology. 50 (3): 253–62. doi:10.1016/j.survophthal.2005.02.008. PMID   15850814.
  9. 1 2 Andersen, J H; Harhoff, M; Grimstrup, S; Vilstrup, I; Lassen, C F; Brandt, L P A; Kryger, A I; Overgaard, E; et al. (2008). "Computer mouse use predicts acute pain but not prolonged or chronic pain in the neck and shoulder" (PDF). Occupational and Environmental Medicine. 65 (2): 126–31. doi: 10.1136/oem.2007.033506 . PMID   17681996.
  10. ↑ Wahlstro¨m, Jens (2005). "Ergonomics, musculoskeletal disorders and computer work" (PDF). Occupational Medicine. 55 (3). Oxford University Press: 168–176. doi:10.1093/occmed/kqi083. PMID   15857896 . Retrieved 20 April 2014.
  11. ↑ Christensen, Matthew A.; Bettencourt, Laura; Kaye, Leanne; Moturu, Sai T.; Nguyen, Kaylin T.; Olgin, Jeffrey E.; Pletcher, Mark J.; Marcus, Gregory M.; Romigi, Andrea (9 November 2016). "Direct Measurements of Smartphone Screen-Time: Relationships with Demographics and Sleep". PLOS ONE. 11 (11): e0165331. Bibcode:2016PLoSO..1165331C. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0165331 . PMC   5102460 . PMID   27829040.
  12. ↑ Hines, Jennifer. "Why Too Much Screen Time Can Lead to Sleep Deprivation for Alaskans". www.alaskasleep.com. Archived from the original on 4 November 2019. Retrieved 2019-11-08.
  13. 1 2 "What Is Melatonin?". Sleep.org. Retrieved 2019-11-09.
  14. ↑ "What is Circadian Rhythm / Body Clock?". Sleep.org. Retrieved 2019-11-09.
  15. ↑ Anderson, David; Wilkin, Rebecca. "What staring at a screen all day does to your brain and body". Business Insider. Retrieved 2019-11-09.
  16. ↑ "Too much time on web 'gives children mental health problems'". 16 May 2014.
  17. ↑ Laurence, Emily (2024-03-14). "We Regret To Inform You That You May Have 'Email Apnea' and Not Even Realize It". GQ. Retrieved 2024-11-04.
  18. ↑ O'Gieblyn, Meghan. "Mental Health Apps Won't Get You Off the Couch". Wired. ISSN   1059-1028 . Retrieved 2024-11-04.
  19. ↑ "Five Healthy Tips for Working at a Computer | Ramsay Health UK". www.ramsayhealth.co.uk. Retrieved 2025-01-15.
  20. ↑ "Rx for Prolonged Sitting: A Five-Minute Stroll Every Half Hour". Columbia University Irving Medical Center. 2023-01-05. Retrieved 2025-01-15.
  21. ↑ "20-20-20 rule: How to prevent eye strain". www.medicalnewstoday.com. 2018-04-18. Retrieved 2025-01-15.
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