Posted on 3rd Sep 2011 @ 5:34 PM

Many people think the iPad tablet computer is awesome. It's cute. It's convenient. It's powerful. It's versatile. And it's sooooo 21st century. But is the iPad ergonomic, or will our future be filled with aching joints and sore muscles?

…both for us AND our cats?

The iPad's interface allows the user to move between screens by sliding a finger sideways across its surface. If this motion is repeated dozens (or hundreds) of times, pain or discomfort in the wrist or hand may develop. Plus, some experts point out that the iPad is mainly designed for right-handed people, so left-handed individuals may not find the product quite as user-friendly.

Anyone who has tried to type on an iPad knows that its digital keyboard is less than half of the size of a traditional computer keyboard. As a result, a user must draw his or hands in closer together to type, which in turn puts additional strain on the shoulders and forearms. This constricted body posture is a recipe for carpal tunnel syndrome, shoulder pain, and other similar conditions.

And then there's the display of the iPad itself. Although the screen elements are colorful and clear, the brightness of an iPad is considerably lower than that of a standard computer monitor. It's easy to envision a person developing eyestrain after working (or playing) on an iPad for long periods of time.

So what's an iPad user to do?

Thankfully, there are certain complementary products and accessories for the iPad that are helping to make the user experience more ergonomic. For instance, external keyboards which plug into the iPad are now available for people who like to use the tablet to type messages, e-mails, and other digital documents. Also, iPad users can purchase a stand which tilts the screen up and forward (like a photo frame) to lessen the strain on the wrists and hands. There's even an iPad swing-arm stand which attaches to a desk and allows someone to position the device for maximum comfort and ergonomic benefits.

Coming soon: the iPad Jacket.

The iPad represents a revolution in the way people use computers. But like many trailblazing products, there are still a few kinks to be worked out regarding the design and functionality. Thankfully, the marketplace has quickly responded with products and methods which address these issues - just like it always does. So iPad aficionados can rest easy knowing that whatever ergonomic issues may arise, there will probably be an invention or innovation that takes care of them.