I Work, Ergo I Hurt

NECK AND SHOULDERS




What You Feel: Tightness on one or both sides of your upper spine.



Why You Feel It: Your 10- to 14-pound noggin is crushing your carotid artery and tiring your trapezius muscles. This reduces blood flow to the brain, causing a headache and burning eyes within an hour.



Solution: Keep your head up. Look for products that keep it in a neutral position-that is, with the bottom of your nose parallel to your desk.




Sharp LL-T2020 LCD Monitor

This new display prevents eye, neck and shoulder strain, thanks to the special anti-glare coating and a fully adjustable flat screen. Just center the 20.1-inch screen in front of you and adjust the height so your eyes are in line with a point
2 to 3 inches below the top of the monitor casing. Price: $1,999.

1. LapVantage Dome

Your laptop, with its fixed screen and keyboard, is pure ergo evil. This adjustable stand places the screen at a more comfortable height and even swivels 360 degrees for presentations. Price: $80.




HAND AND WRIST

What You Feel: Burning, tingling and numbness in your thumb and index fingers.



Why You Feel It: The bones and tendons in your wrist are sucker-punching the nerves leading to the fingers and the muscles at the base of the thumb. Bottom line: Carpal tunnel is a-comin'.



Solution: Keep your wrists as straight as possible (within 20 degrees) and constantly moving.




Humanscale Whale Mouse

The Whale is a hand Barcalounger. Its slim contoured body includes a thumb and palm rest, encouraging neutral wrist, hand and finger positions. What's more, it expands from 6 to 7.5 inches so anyone can palm it perfectly. Price: $100.



Contour Design Optical Perfit Mouse

Like shirts, this mouse comes in sizes from XS to XL (based on the distance from the tip of your index finger to the crease of your wrist). The five-button design spreads the work among all digits. Price: $90.



Specialized Body Geometry MTB Grip

Pressure on the ulnar nerve inflicts pinkie and index finger numbness in 40 percent of all cyclists. A foam-gel pad on the outside of the grip relieves nerve pressure, and it is
also designed to maintain a neutral hand position. Price: $12 per pair.

2. DeWalt Cordless Impact Driver
DeWalt's newest drill-drivers are 35 percent shorter, 20 percent lighter and pack 244 percent more torque (a walloping 129 foot-pounds) than traditional cordless drills. This means less kickback to your wrist and more comfortable overhead work. Price: $229.

3. Victorinox SwissWerks Suitcase
A curved handle and telescoping grip allow you to roll it with your palm facing your body. Ergo-bonus: It's 30 percent lighter than other bags, says Swiss Army. Price: $219 to $279.