Nancy A. Baker, of the University of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, and team performed an analysis of data from 359 participants with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, [...] No related posts.]]> According to a recently released study, and maybe common sense and logic, people with arthritis or fibromyalgia frequently have discomfort or problems using computers. This can contribute to work limitations.

Nancy A. Baker, of the University of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, and team performed an analysis of data from 359 participants with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or fibromyalgia who completed a survey about their computer use and discomfort and specific problems while using computer equipment.

The majority of the study group (76.5%) reported discomfort with use of at least one item of computer equipment. The largest number (54.9%) of this group reported discomfort during chair use. Other items that were identified with problems and discomfort:

• keyboard
• mouse
• monitor

Fibromyalgia Patients were more likely to report more problems, more severe discomfort, and more significant limitations related to computer use than people with the other conditions, the researchers found.

“The ability to use a computer appears to be one method to prevent work limitations and eventual work disability, as well as a vital tool for both work and home activities. Therefore, 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,” the authors conclude.

Results of the study were published in the May 15 Arthritis Care & Research.

Originally posted 2009-05-13 13:00:21. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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