Finding The Best Ergonomic Mouse
Ergonomic Computer Mice May Reduce Carpal Tunnel Pain and Discomfort
Apr 4, 2009
Using a good quality ergonomic mouse can go a long way toward limiting or even eliminating the early symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Finding an ergonomic mouse that is the correct size and shape for a persons hand while still having the desired features is a much more difficult task however.
Many of the computer mice that are sold in retail stores say that they are ergonomic, but even the most well designed mouse will cause stress on the hand if it is not the correct size or shape. This guide is intended as a basic reference to the many kinds of computer mice that are currently on the market with special emphasis on those that are considered to be the best for preventing or limiting the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Which Ergonomic Mouse Design Is The Best?
The vast majority of computer users use the computer mouse that was provided with the system. In most cases these are traditional, half oval shaped two button mice with or without a scroll wheel. This basic shape has served computer users well for decades, but it does little to position the hand and wrist properly to prevent putting pressure on the median nerve.
Over time manufacturers have started producing ergonomic computer mice that take a variety of different approaches toward alleviating stress on that nerve. As a result there are now four basic categories of ergonomic computer mouse designs:
- Traditional half moon shaped mice that are sculpted to make the mouse more form fitting to the users hand. Examples of this type of mouse include the new Microsoft Explorer Mouse.
- Traditional mice with wrist extensions that support and move with the mouse, preventing the wrist from dropping and resting directly on the tabletop. Examples of this type include the Perfit Mouse which also comes in a variety of sizes to fit almost any hand.
- Extreme ergonomic mice that solve most of the problems that cause carpal tunnel pressure but whose design deviates so much from the traditional style that users have difficulty adjusting. Mice in this category include styles such as the Zero Tension Mouse , a mouse that is flipped on its side to allow the user to mouse with the thumb pointing upward in a very natural and relaxed position.
- Mouse alternatives such as trackballs and other devices that allow the cursor to be controlled with the eyes, feet, or by other means.
According to research done in 1999 by Cornell University of the two types of traditional computer mouse styles the type that incorporates a built in wrist rest reduce some of the risks associated with mouse use, but at the same time the ergonomic mice were also much less comfortable to use at first and required a bit of adjustment by the users. The more extreme styles of mice were not included in the study, but the general feedback from users of the Perfit and other similar mice tends to be quite positive and effective in reducing carpal tunnel pain.
The best ergonomic computer mouse for an individual user is a very personal matter. Never purchase a mouse without first giving it a try in a store or at least make sure that the mouse can be returned if it does not fit the users hand properly. The vast majority of carpal tunnel injuries associated with mouse use could be alleviated or delayed simply by changing the mouse or the mousing environment. The purchase of an ergonomic computer mouse is not one to be taken lightly.
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