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thinking about a standing desk? try before you buy [Virginian - Pilot](Virginian - Pilot Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Is a standing desk better for our family computer rather than one that forces users to sit all the time? Standing desks have gotten a lot of attention in the last few years. Several studies have pointed to the benefits of creating a computer workstation where users stand instead of sit. Those long- range benefits include a lower risk of obesity, cancer and even death. Some studies suggest that a standing desk can improve kids' focus and even encourage them to burn more calories. Depending on the size and age of family members - and the use of different tech devices, such as tablets, e-readers, laptops and mobile devices - finding a system to improve the general ergonomics of a family computer can be a challenge. Check out these ideas to help your family minimize the physical detriments of continuous screen use and to best design a family computer workstation to benefit your family: Try it first. Before you invest in an expensive standing desk or other gadget, try putting the computer on your kitchen counter or island. The higher height will force you to stand, and you can get an idea of whether you and other family members would enjoy that. Make sure the surface is stable and will not tip over if a child starts to climb on it. Use a small, sturdy stool for younger kids. A child's eye- level gaze should hit the top of the computer screen. Take breaks. Using a standing desk still can cause strain in the back, neck and shoulders. The bottom line is this: Any concentrated time in front of a screen can cause cramping and interrupt circulation. Get blood flowing by using handy computer programs that signal users to take a break and to stop, stretch or look away. For Macs, try apps such as Coffee Break ($2.99, iTunes) or Awareness (Free, iamfutureproof.com/tools/awareness/). For PCs, consider Workrave (workrave.org). Educate your kids. Backs, necks and knees are casualties of prolonged screen viewing. Improper neck and shoulder alignment can cause headaches, nausea and jaw pain. Help kids learn to stretch, look up, walk away from the screen and drink plenty of water to hydrate muscles, whether sitting or standing. Shop around. You can find a variety of standing computer desks, from inexpensive models (Mobile Notebook Computer Cart, $49, Target.com) to adjustable platforms that allow you to change from sitting to standing (Varidesk Pro, $275, Varidesk.com). Sharon Cindrich is a mother of two, a columnist and the author of "E-Parenting: Keeping Up With Your Tech-Savvy Kids" (Random House, 2007). Learn more at www.pluggedinparent.com or send your questions to [email protected]. (c) 2014 ProQuest Information and Learning Company; All Rights Reserved. |