Q: Why does it help to stretch before using a computer?
A: It allows the muscle to lengthen and prepares them for repetitive use. Stretching allows for a transition from inactivity to activity without undue strain.

Q: What happens when you don’t stretch?
A: The muscle and tendons gradually tighten, shortening the length of the muscle, resulting in less available motion. The muscles have to work harder with the muscle tight leading to
increased chance of injury.

Q: How does it compare to an athlete stretching before competing?
A: An athlete would not forget to stretch prior to activity. An athlete stretches to increase the flexibility of the joints to enhance their performance, and reduce the risk of injury. This principal should apply to all of us in our working environments as well. Improved function results in better performance with less effort and reduced risk of injury.

Q: How often do you recommend stopping to stretch?
A: Prior to the start of the day at work or on the computer, when you start to feel stiff, and when you have a natural break while at the computer. Most of us need a reminder of this and hopefully when can stretch every couple hours.

Q: How are the hands, fingers, wrists, forearms, neck & back interconnected?
A: These regions are all interconnected in the process of typing at the computer. These regions are all in a static state of contraction during the entire time while at the computer.

Q: When people have wrist pain related to computer use, what’s causing the pain?
A: Multiple possibilities: Fatigue within the contracted muscle, nerve compression, inflammation or muscle injury.

Q: What other information would be relevant and informative for someone with pain due to repetitive tasks?
A: Ergonomic advice, strengthening exercises, nutrition advice, and things to watch for that need a doctor's consult.