Welcome to the VUW OOS Information Site

What is OOS?

When muscles are held tense, or if you tighten them repeatedly, they become tired and sore.

You may experience muscle fatigue while using a computer or if you are doing a lot of writing in the course of your work. Your ability to cope will be affected by both mental and physical stressors.

This fatigue is now commonly known as Overuse Syndromebut really it is Underuse of your soft tissues.

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OOS may affect your ability to enjoy life with family and friends.

For staff and students there are many different tasks such as typing, marking, writing, playing musical instruments, net surfing and computer games which may lead to this discomfort.

The rate at which muscles tire varies between individuals.

OOS hurts

Why it hurts

What causes the discomfort

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Stress managementLeaving assignments or marking to the ‘last minute’ only adds to your level of tension.

Plan your work sessionStructure work to include a variety of tasks. Short breaks or changes in task give the muscles a chance to recover.

Computer literacyLearning keyboard shortcuts and understanding your computers “tools,” will save you time and avoid tension.

Health and fitnessMaintaining a healthy lifestyle prepares you for periods of tension.

nextbackThink About it

Relationship to computer Take the time to optimize the position of your screen, copy stand, keyboard and chair.

Environment Work within a well lit and ventilated workspace with minimal noise, at a comfortable temperature.

Posture You should feel comfortable while you are working. You can make all the necessary changes with an adjustable chair and footstool if youtake the time.

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Warm your hands Cold muscles and tendons are more susceptible to discomfort.RelaxLet go of the mouse and take your hands off the keyboard when you are thinking.

Short breaks (click here for more information)Spend at least five minutes every hour away from your computer

Stretch / move (click here for more information)Do some exercises, any exercise will be helpful

Micro pauses (click here for more information)Take a few minutes every hour stop working and drop your arms to your side

nextbackWhile Working Do This

Take action

Moderate your time on the computer and look at your current working habits. Take breaks regularly. Can you arrange a variety of tasks? Plan your work. Working all night may result in a lower standard of work, and may give you discomfort. Are you doing all that you can to minimize tension? Remember you control the amount of rest that your muscles are getting.

Symptoms such as soreness, stiffness, burning, aching, and numbness can be managed. Even if they disappear overnight seek help and advice.

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