having problems moving character around

actually i dont know if this is an sl problem or a problem with my keyboard, because as i am typing this, i noticed, i cant use my shift key, and i have to tap the backspace key instead of just holding it down. i have to repeatedly tap the arrow keys to move my char. at all, and it only makes her move one step at a time. also, i notice a puff of blue or green at her feet occasionally. and, i cannot use my alt key, to move camera around. i dont see any settings for my keyboard that would resolve this problem.