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REAL LIFE NEWS: IPADS CAUSE SHOULDER PAIN

by Hazed

Using tablet computers such as Apple's best-selling iPad could ruin your health. The US Department of Environmental Health, in conjunction with Microsoft, says that tablet users run a more serious risk of "neck and shoulder discomfort" than people using an ordinary desktop computer.

A study has just been published looking at the posture of those using the devices while carrying out a set of typical tasks. Fifteen people described as "experienced tablet users" undertook "simple computer tasks such as internet browsing and reading, game playing, email reading and responding, and movie watching." While this was going on, the researchers measured the various angles into which they contorted their bodies, using an infrared recording system.

The tablets used in the study were iPad 2s along with Motorola Xooms, both fitted with adjustable case/stands.

The result, according to lead investigator Jack T Dennerlein: "Compared to typical desktop computing scenarios, the use of media tablet computers is associated with high head and neck flexion postures, and there may be more of a concern for the development of neck and shoulder discomfort.".

The reason is that tablets make their users bend their necks and shoulders more, because they have to hunch over to view the screens a lot more than is necessary with desktop computers or laptops.

This study, of course, used a very small number of participants, but if the results turn out to be an accurate reflection of the way people use the gadgets, it could make it hard for them to gain wider use, as pointed out by ergonomics expert Dan Odell from Microsoft, who was involved in the study.

The researchers say that: "Tablet users should place the tablet higher, on a table rather than a lap, to avoid low gaze angles, and use a case that provides steeper viewing angles. However, steeper angles may be detrimental for continuous input with the hands."

In other words, you can have a good viewing angle or a good typing angle, but not both!

Source: http://www.theregister.co.uk/2012/01/25/ipad_tablet_use_shoulder_pain/

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