Individuals that work in front of a computer screen often experience visual discomfort.  Fortunately, there are ways of preventing visual discomfort with proper monitor alignment.  A person experiences visual discomfort that presents itself through tired, dry, itchy eyes and slightly blurry vision.  While this problem is not as common as other injuries that occur in the workplace, there are ways of reducing visual discomfort, mainly through the proper alignment of a monitor so that the eyes do not have to strain.  Improving alignment can significantly improve work productivity and decrease the possibility of facing compensation claims made by employees that incur injuries while at work.

In order to improve alignment, individuals need to select a computer screen that provides enough of a viewing area to read without straining the eyes.  The screen needs to provide text that is well enough for you to view while sitting a preferred distance away from the screen.  If you need to lean forward or strain your eyes to read what is on the screen, then it is not large enough to decrease visual injury.  If you experience this problem at home, buying a larger monitor is important.  However, if you experience this problem at work, you need to speak up and mention it to your boss.

A larger screen gives you a wider viewing area, which also helps to improve alignment.  However, another way to improve alignment is by purchasing an adjustable screen or a screen that has a lift so you can adjust the height and tilt of the screen for better viewing that decreases strain on the eyes.  Make sure the screen is tilted or lifted just right so that you do not have to lean forward to read what is on the screen.  You must not get too close to the screen as this can only add to visual strain.

Eliminate visual strain even further by sitting in a chair that allows you to allow your head and neck to sit properly adjusted with the alignment of the screen.  If your head and neck are supported, it decreases visual injury by allowing you to relax.  Relaxation promotes healthy visual support so that you can sit properly aligned with your computer screen.  Buy a high-backed chair and perhaps a neck roll or headrest so that you are encouraged to sit straight so that your head does not lean forward toward the screen.