Tablet Ergonomics - The "Counter" Trend

As all of the ergonomics technologies are improving with sit/stand desks and other improvements there is one trend leading us backwards. That is the mobile-computing trend. Things like notebook computers, tablets, and other touchscreen devices are creating this tradeoff between either our neck posture or shoulder and back posture.

Tablet adoption has exploded over the past decade. The PEW Reasearch Center states that more than 50% of Americans own a tablet, e-book, or both. There was a big boom when Apple came out with the iPad in 2010.

These tablets are used in non-traditional locations for lightweight interactions such as on the couch or on the bed. They are used for activities such as checking email, playing games, and social media. The following chart shows how and where people commonly use them. Also, people are using their tablets while doing other things such as watching television or cooking.

People often adapt to one or two positions depending on the location they use the tablet. Comfort is usually based on the length of time a posture is held when holding the tablet. Frequent shifting is common when using a tablet to relieve the discomfort from fatigue but one actual benefit of using a tablet vs. a computer is that you can shift to various positions when using the device.

People hold their device with either 1 hand, 2 hands, or no hands. Typically the issues that exist as a general statement includes awkward postures of the neck and wrists and static loads from holding the device. Other issues include wrist extension when typing depending on the tilt of the tablet on a stand and hand/forearm fatigue when holding the tablet.

·      Holding the tablet in the hands cause wrist deviations and so the tablet should be placed on a stand.

·      To accommodate neck flexion and eye gaze angles use a case and place it on a table. Minimize use on a lap but if used in a lap, use a pillow or a lap desk to bring it up.

·      When performing tasks on the tablet that requires typing, bring the angle of the tablet down to reduce wrist extension.

·      When viewing a movie or when performing a task have the screen be as perpendicular to your line of vision as possible.

·      Get static loads off the arms with external support for the device.

·      Use an external keyboard to reduce wrist extension when typing and create separation to accommodate the neck.