University of Michigan professor of electrical engineering and science Clay Scott has compiled thorough data on repetitive motion strain and released some of the most effective tips for prevention. Encouraging workers who spend extensive hours on their computers to follow these guidelines can avoid potential injury and help to enhance worker productivity.

Scott advises to practice good posture constantly while working. Having difficulty maintaining proper posture is typically a red flag and means that an employee should take a break or adjust her desk chair. Using the computer only when absolutely necessary is another useful guideline to implement in the office. If an employee can walk down the hall to relay a message, enforce that method instead of letting them send an email to a nearby coworker.

While moving the wrist when directing a computer mouse seems unavoidable, an employee can avoid specific harm to the wrist by lifting up and moving the entire arm with each drag and click. Letting bigger muscles such as the back and shoulder do most of the work could ultimately help save employees from harm as well as decrease worker injury costs from lost productivity.

Keeping a stress ball or tennis ball nearby can help to relieve feelings of strain in the wrist or forearm by rolling it firmly along the muscle. Ultimately, the best way to prevent employee injuries such as repetitive motion strain is by taking regular breaks from computer work as often as possible.