MANILA, Philippines - Sitting in front of a computer all day? This may cause a number of health problems, an orthopedic surgeon said.

Dr. Jose Pujalte Jr. said repetitive movements such as typing on a keyboard for hours may cause significant strain to the hands, which may eventually lead to a condition called carpal tunnel syndrome.

Its main symptom is intermittent numbness of the thumb, index and middle fingers.

"Over time, hihina rin siya, mangangalay, mangangawit hanggang sa kapag may hinawakan kang tasa mabibitawan mo na," Pujalte said in an interview on ABS-CBN's "Salamat Dok" over the weekend.

Another condition that Pujalte linked to excessive computer use is the De Quervain syndrome, where the thumb side of the wrist may experience pain, tenderness and swelling.

This, he said, can also be acquired when a person frequently uses his mobile phone to send text messages.

Aside from hand strain and injury, too much time in front of the computer may lead to nape and back pain, as well as bad posture.

Pujalte said these may be caused by "bad ergonomics" in the workplace, such as when the monitor is positioned too high or when the keyboard tray is too small.

"Dapat ang height ng upuan ay sinusukat mo rin. Mahirap na 'pag uupo ka sa isang upuan na hindi sumasayad ang paa mo. Maganda kung ang paa natin ay nakapatong sa isang libro o directory para may foot rest," he said.

These conditions may be inevitable for some given the nature of their jobs, but these can still be prevented, Pujalte said.

Here are some of his tips:

• Let your hands rest for 30 minutes after 4 hours of repetitive work
• Stretch your fingers, hands, arms and legs regularly
• Consult a doctor if your back pain does not go away after 2 to 3 weeks
• If your work requires you to sit all day, make it a point to exercise on weekends, or during your free time

Information taken from http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/lifestyle/05/23/11/excessive-computer-use-may-cause-back-pain-hand-injury