Laptop Computer Ergonomics

The solutions to laptop ergonomics issues are two fold: Posture and the appropriate laptop accessories. You must use them both in order to achieve proper laptop computer ergonomics and optimize your positioning.

Use a large screen:
Use a laptop computer with the largest screen possible for your needs to avoid the stressful posture that results from straining to see the text on a small screen. Many laptop computers offer large screens (15" plus), but these can be difficult to use while on the go. There are a number of smaller notebook and ultra-portable computer laptops on the market, and while a smaller screen (12.1") can be useful in mobile settings, make sure that you’re able to read the screen characters and easily use the laptop keyboard (the smaller the laptop, the smaller the keyboard). If you find yourself straining to see your screen, increase the font size.

Use a Laptop Holder:
Using a laptop holder or laptop stand is the most critical and important thing you can do to optimize your laptop ergonomics. While using the laptop holder, place the laptop screen at eye level. Ideally, set your computer laptop height and screen angle so you can easily view the screen without bending or rotating your neck, and put it about an arm’s length in front of you. To do this, you will usually need to elevate the computer laptop a few inches above your desk, and this is why the laptop holder ot laptop stand is so useful, as the laptop holder provides a stable support surface for the laptop to be placed on. 

Use a separate or external compact keyboard:
 When using the laptop for extended periods, use an external compact keyboard with your computer laptop and position the compact keyboard at a height that allows your shoulders and arms to be in a relaxed position, with your elbows at a 90° angle when typing. Ideally, place the external compact keyboard on an adjustable keyboard tray beneath your desk surface to help ensure that your wrists stay in a neutral (flat) position, position the laptop ergonomics keyboard at elbow height, this will keep your wrists in the straight position while typing.

Use a separate, external computer mouse:
Be kind to your wrists and hands by using an independent computer mouse rather than the constricted computer mouse touch screen or track ball that’s incorporated into your computer laptop keyboard. Ideally, place the computer mouse on an adjustable-position mouse platform such as with the adjustable keyboard trays,so you can keep it near your body and keep your wrist straight while using it.

Recline slightly:
This will allow you to properly position the ergonomics computer laptop keyboard and computer mouse with the least strain on your neck. Angle the screen slightly upward so that you can view the screen without having to bend your neck too far down. This is important in order to keep your head and neck in a relaxed posture; avoid excessive neck flexion (forward head bending) or rotation to either side, make sure your computer laptop and computer keyboard is directly in front of you.

Make your chair work for you;
The type of office chair you use is critical. Basically, any office chair that is fully adjustable and has lumbar support will work, but you need to be sure to set it up correctly. Make sure you have proper lumbar support and that you do not slouch.

Use wrist rests if possible, gel wrist rests are recommended in order to reduce any force on the wrists themselves. Keep your wrists as flat and straight as possible. Use whole hand and arm movements to navigate the laptop ergonomics keyboard.  This is why the external keyboard is so important.  Your hands and wrists should be kept in a straight wrist posture when typing and should not be resting on a palm rest, table or lap while typing. This can cause you Ergonomics Laptop disorders. Maintain the three primary reaching zones. (See "posture tips" page)

Take breaks:

Take brief breaks every half hour, at the very least taking your eyes off the screen and letting them rest on something in the distance, and doing some simple stretches while at your desk, such as stretching your neck, shoulders, arms and legs. Every one or two hours, leave your desk to walk around to get your blood flowing and move your muscles.

Travel light:
 Be careful when carrying your ergonomics computer laptop around. Carry your bag across your lower back in a messenger bag style, or use a backpack with dual padded shoulder straps (and avoid draping the bag over just one shoulder). If your ergonomics computer laptop and components weigh more than 10 lbs, a roll-along carrier is the best choice.

Use an office footrest to support your feet. When seated your hips should be slightly higher than your knees.