Tablet users must be conscious of posture

The way tablet computer users hold their devices may be putting undue strain on their neck muscles, according to a study from the Harvard School of Public Health which examines the technology's effects on the head, neck and shoulders.

The study highlights the four most common ways that tablet users hold the devices: the lap-hand, in which the tablet rests on the user's lap; the lap-case, where the tablet is propped at a slight angle using the device’s case; table-case, where the tablet is set on a hard surface at a low angle; and table-movie, where the tablet is set at a steep angle for movie-watching.

Of the four, table-movie was determined to be the best position for tablet use, as it does not cause the user to sit in a strenuous position.

The report suggests that tablet manufacturers apply this information when designing future products to ensure that the devices promote "neutral postures and increase the comfort of the user."

Tablet users may also want to take this information into consideration to prevent future discomfort. With tablets being used in more and more situations, including in the home, while traveling and in the office, users are advised to develop healthy habits early.