Easy Ways to Reduce Digital Eye Strain 

Employees who spend most of their workday on a computer are susceptible to digital eye strain. A few simple preventive measures can help reduce related discomfort such as blurred vision; eye dryness, tearing, or stinging; headaches; and neck-and-shoulder tightness.  

Tips to reduce digital eye strain: 

1. Practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.     
2. Be conscious about blinking more often to help keep your eyes moist; try over-the-counter drops to relieve dry eye. 
3. Prioritize posture and proper placement of your computer screen to reduce glare from office and natural light and slightly lower your gaze. 

Did You Know? 

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends wearing computer glasses to help reduce work-related eye strain. These differ from glasses with blue-light filtering lenses, which studies show may not be an effective digital eye strain deterrent. WorkCare Injury Prevention Specialists with training in ergonomics can help employees make workstation adjustments to improve comfort and reduce injury risk when using computers and handheld digital devices. Learn more.

Adam Viola, MS, CEAS, is an Industrial Injury Prevention Specialist at WorkCare.