Comparison of orbicularis oculi muscle activity during computer work with single and dual monitors

Abstract

Purpose: This study compared the orbicularis oculi muscle activity during computer work with single and dual monitors. Subjects: Ten computer workers 22–27 years of age were included in this study. Methods: Subjects performed computer work with single or dual monitors, and the activity of the right orbicularis oculi muscle was measured with a MP150 system. Results: The muscle activity of the orbicularis oculi under condition 1 was significantly decreased compared with that under conditions 2 or 3. The muscle activity of the orbicularis oculi under condition 3 was significantly increased compared with that under condition 2. Conclusion: The present study found that the use of dual monitors increased orbicularis oculi activity; therefore, to decrease eye fatigue in computer users, computer workstations that use either a single monitor, or identical monitors from the same manufacturer in a dual setup, are recommended.