Ergonomic Tips (09/02)
Stretch Break Pro
by John R. Chait D.C., drchait@comcast.net
Member of the Sarasota Personal Computer Users Group, Inc.
Stretch Break Pro software was created by a team of health care professionals with the aim of minimizing repetitive strain injuries (like Carpal Tunnel syndrome), reduce stress and improve ergonomic use of desktop computers and furniture. Each stretch session lasts less than three minutes and has a default of three stretch routines, which you can change. Virtual-reality models demonstrate the stretches on-screen, so you'll be sure to perform the stretches properly. Exercises include shoulder shrugs, wrist and finger presses, eyes around the clock, and 21 other movements. You can specify how often Stretch Break Pro kicks in and the number and duration of stretch exercises per break. When it's time to stretch, a message box pops up. You can start or stop the stretch break at any time.
This Pro version includes a Tracker program to monitor usage and allows you to choose which stretches you'd like to cycle through. Click on the Ergo Hints button for ideas and improvements to how you can relate ergonomically correct to your computer, desk, chair, lights, and so on. All of the stretches can be performed quietly from your chair. Stretch Break Pro should not be used as a substitute to a qualified Chiropractic physician. Be sure to read the disclaimer. Companies would be wise to add this program to their ergonomic improvements and management program. In this update users can choose sequence and duration of stretches and can select the Standard Timer or the Smart Timer which monitors keyboard and mouse activity to determine the time to the next break. The program now plays music during breaks.
To download this nifty little program for a 10 day trial period, go to the Para Technologies website at the following web address: http://www.paratec.com/
Stretch Break makes an ideal gift for the computer buffs on your list. It will help them avoid repetitive strain injuries in a gentle and efficient way. :
Copyright 2002. This article is from the September 2002 issue of the Sarasota PC Monitor, the official monthly publication of the Sarasota Personal Computer Users Group, Inc., P.O. Box 15889, Sarasota, FL 34277-1889. Permission to reprint is granted only to other non-profit computer user groups, provided proper credit is given to the author and our publication. We would appreciate receiving a copy of the publication the reprint appears in, please send to above address, Attn: Editor. For further information about our group, email: admin@spcug.org/ Web: http://www.spcug.org/
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