50 per cent of computer workers who also use a telephone for at least two hours a day report neck pain, while 31 per cent report lower back pain. A poor workstation set-up is often the culprit. A chair that is too low or high, a screen that is too small or set too low, a desk too narrow to support your forearms - all of these contribute to aches and pains in the workplace. Both feet should be flat on the floor, your thighs supported by the chair and your spine straight. Your shoulders should be relaxed, with arms bent to a right angle and forearms supported on the desk.

Keep your wrists relaxed while you are typing. Also, regular phone users should have a head set, rather than having to cradle the receiver between their ear and shoulder. If you are suffering from any pain or discomfort at work, ask your employers (or consider paying for it yourself, if you are self-employed) about having a workstation assessment.

Image: Flickr/creativecommons sskennel