I'm glad you had a 'different' day today Lauren - it sounds like the change did you good. I think when you don't go out to work, it still does you good to have a 'weekend' of some sort where you change the routine, for all sorts of reasons.
I just had a workplace assessment and the Occupational Health lady was horrified at all the laptop hours I spend planning, researching, downloading resources, online marking etc (and that's without all the fun stuff I didn't tell her about!) She said laptops are so bad for posture and RSI as the screen is several inches too low, there is no wrist support, the keyboard is usually too far away - and much more!
I'd have never known all this. It may be worth considering whether spending so much time online is exacerbating your problems Lauren. She is recommending a docking station, lumber support chair, separate keyboard and mouse, gel wrist supports, anti glare screen and other things I can't remember. I'm waiting for the report then will see what the response at school is.
The OH lady also told me about Access to Work who will assess the requirements of the job against your particular needs. For me, changes to the school day have been so hard to adjust to the past few weeks. 30 mins lunch break (effectively 20) means barely time to visit the loo ,wash hands and eat half a sandwhich. The canteen facilities are ina separate block so it is too far to rush over to. Might be worth a thought for anyone else who is trying to manage work with their needs. It doesn't have to mean giving up work.
So glad you are still finding the strength to be so creative Lauren, and good to catch up with your news. XX Ailsa
