I have a vague memory of reading something from the Joel Spolsky's blogs regarding the need to have something distant to look at to avoid eye strain. Are there any studies or recommendations suggesting against the placement of a monitor directly in front of the wall (having you face the wall, with the monitor in between).
I have lately been starting to experience eye strain and think that the placement of the monitor might be a factor. I have also started the habit of taking a break every 20 minutes (http://lifehacker.com/5591835/reduce-computer+caused-eye-strain-with-the-20+20+20-rule), but it isn't helping.