These workplace environment changes, combined with longer working hours, have changed the visual demands and requirements of the office worker. Visual complaints such as burred vision, eyestrain, headaches, dry and scratchy eyes, and fatigue, in addition to muscular strain of the neck, back and other parts of the body, can affect the office worker’s performance. In many cases, these visual symptoms can be treated to increase the office worker’s comfort, productivity and enjoyment of the job.

 

Vision: A comprehensive vision exam by an optometrist can detect slight visual corrections that cause that office worker to squint and develop eyestrain. A minor spectacle or contact lens prescription can alleviate eyestrain and blurred vision caused by staring at computers and digital projections for long periods of time.

 

Ergonomics: The human body (eyes, neck, back, etc.) is not designed to sit for long periods of time. If vision is not adequate for an office task a worker may often sit in unnatural, hunched positions that can cause fatigue, discomfort and headaches. Proper visual correction with regular rest/body stretch breaks will improve the long-term comfort and productivity of the office worker.

 

Physical Ocular Comfort: Staring at a computer screen in an air conditioned office can lead to a decreased rate of blinking and dry, scratchy, burning eyes. Setting the computer screen below eye level will encourage a downward gaze and more frequent blinking. The use of artificial tears, ocular lubricants and control of the office environment can reduce the symptoms of dry, scratchy eyes.