The effects of a typing task on the hand volume of the older worker.
Few studies have examined the relationship between changes in hand volume and typing. Volumetric evaluation documents the presence of an inflammatory response to activity.


METHODS
To study this relationship, researchers used a convenience sample of 31 participants who were aged 45 and older and worked full time where they typed at least one hour per day. Volumetric measurements were taken before a 15-minute typing activity, immediately after and 10 minutes after typing. Before typing, ergonomic adjustments were made to computer workstations, when necessary. Participants typed using an advanced speed test of the Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing program, which calculated adjusted words per minute.


RESULTS
The data showed no significant (F = 0.321, p > 0.05) change in hand volume resulting from the typing activity.


CONCLUSIONS
The amount of exercise provided in this study, a fifteen minute typing activity, did not result in changed hand volume.
School of Occupational Therapy, University of Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN 46227, USA.
Morrisa
M
Francis
Genevieve
G
Good
Jessica
J
Johnson
Jill
J
Lathrop
Lee
L
Ryan
Sarah
S
Propst
Manali
M
Shaw
Penelope
P
Moyers
Ronald
R
Beebe
D000368:Aged; D000886:Anthropometry / Q000379:methods; D016288:Computer Terminals; D005260:Female; D006225:Hand / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009048:Motor Skills / Q000502:physiology*