Computer Aches & Pains, Websites and Web Hosting

PC - Your Best Friend Or Pain In The Neck? Your Web Hosting Provider Can Help

The miracles of technology have permanently and profoundly transformed our lives during the past 20 years.  Of all of the technological influences, the World Wide Web is the king. And due to leading web hosting providers, a beginner can setup a website within a few minutes using readily accessible tools. The number of technophobes is, by necessity, dwindling as billions of people from around the world turn to their computers to shop, book flights, order pizza, trade stocks, earn college degrees, find recipes and search for soul mates.

Despite the net’s life-enhancing abilities, many people find that their computers are a pain in the neck - literally. Actually it’s not the computers themselves, it is the computer workstations and the way we use them. Since the success of your ecommerce site is directly proportionally to your customers’ willingness to stay and browse, it may behoove you to offer customers some information about preventing ergonomic problems and eye strain.

Ergonomic experts agree that the proper workstation is the key to preventing the aches, pains and eyestrain that are associated with prolonged use of the computer. When you are working at a desk, make sure that you use a desk chair that has a padded seat and is the proper height to allow you to use the mouse and keyboard with ease. Put the mouse on the side that is most comfortable for you and make sure that your elbow is close to your body and your arm is relaxed when using the mouse. Avoid any computer mouse that requires you to bend your wrist.

Your computer monitor should be centered at arm’s length from you. Place the monitor at eye level. Keep both feet on the floor while sitting and don’t get into the habit of leaning forward to look at the screen.

Your web hosting provider says: "Take a break".

No matter how busy you are, it is extremely important to get up from you computer desk to stand and stretch at least every half hour. These ergonomic breaks are not a waste of time. They are critical to your well being and will greatly improve your productivity. 

More than 50 percent of computer users experience eyestrain, headaches, blurred vision and other eye discomfort. Many of these symptoms can be reduced through a combination of correcting workstation positions, posture, stress-relieving eyeglass lenses, special anti-glare screens, eye exercises and nutritional supplements.

Some of the most common causes of computer-related visual stress are:

• An increase in the complexity of necessary eye movements and focusing skills.
• Poor light conditions, glare and distracting reflections
• Screen flicker rate
• Extended hours on the computer

When you use your computer you don’t blink as often as you normally do and this can cause or exacerbate dry eye syndrome. People blink about 22 times a minute while relaxing, 10 times while reading but only seven times while working at a computer. Try to blink more frequently, take breaks and use artificial tears if necessary.

Although laptop computers were not initially recommended for “extended hour” use they have actually become the primary workstation for millions of people. Laptops keep you in touch and enable you to obtain information instantly when you need it. Most people can’t live without them. Unfortunately, laptops present some serious ergonomic challenges.  It is important to choose the right laptop in order to minimize your chances of ergonomic problems.

People who travel frequently and use their laptops on the road must give careful consideration to the weight of the system they will be carrying. Many lightweight portables can become as heavy as larger laptops after you add all the components in your carrying bag. If your laptop and components weight 10 pounds or more, you should consider using a pull-along laptop carry-on bag. If you prefer a smaller bag and can comfortably carry your laptop, select a bag that is designed for that purpose and that features a well-padded should strap system.

If you must use your laptop on an airplane, then place a pillow on your lap and set the laptop on the pillow. Lower the window screen and adjust the overhead light to reduce glare. Keep your laptop at the same level as the armrest and use the armrests for arm support.

Follow the basic ergonomic rules when using a laptop. Take a break every 20 minutes and look 20 feet away to rest your hands and eyes.

For best results, perform these simple exercises during your “laptop break.”

• Perform some simple stretching exercises
• Spread the fingers of both hands apart while keeping your wrists straight. Hold for three seconds and repeat five times.
• Massage your fingers, wrists and forearms.
• Lean forward and squeeze your shoulder blades together and bring your elbows behind your back. Keep your shoulders lowered.
• Turn your head gently to the left, center, and right, holding each position for three seconds.

Setup a website with the use of a web hosting account.

In and of themselves, computers don’t have the capacity to cause ergonomic problems or eye strain. The people who use them have full control over the way the computer is used. Your computer is your best friend. You use it to check your bank balance, email friends and setup a website with help from your web hosting provider. But even the best of friends can become a pain in the neck if basic elements are ignored. It’s up to you to keep the friendship vibrant.

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