What ergonomic practice should be followed when using computers for long periods?

• A. Stand on a fitness ball.
• B. Keep wrists bent.
• C. Use a standing desk.
• D. Adjust chair height and take regular breaks.

Answer: (D)

Maintaining a neutral, comfortable setup and taking regular breaks is essential for long computer use. When the chair is at the right height, your feet sit flat on the floor, your knees are roughly at a 90-degree angle, and your forearms can rest parallel to the desk with wrists straight. This alignment reduces strain on the back, neck, shoulders, and wrists, making it easier to work without pain. Adding regular breaks lets you rest the eyes, stretch the muscles, and reset posture, which helps prevent repetitive strain injuries and fatigue over time.

Other options aren’t as helpful in combination: standing on a fitness ball is unstable and can cause balance issues; keeping wrists bent puts extra stress on the joints; while a standing desk can be beneficial in some setups, it doesn’t address the need to maintain neutral posture and take breaks as effectively as adjusting the chair and scheduling rests.