Ergonomic Mice
There are thousands of computer mice available in all shapes, sizes and types from portable ones, to trackball and even touch pad mice since the production of the laptop, but what is an ergonomic mouse?
What makes a mouse ergonomic?
Simply put, an ergonomic mouse is one which is the best fit for the user and most suitable for their daily tasks. The majority of computer-mouse related injuries occur because the mouse which the individual is using is not the best fit.
A non ergonomic mouse puts pressure on the forearm as it forces twisting which produces an unnatural position and can eventually lead to conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome. The body should be kept in the most natural position possible, which has led to vertical mice such as the Evoluent Mouse being one of the most commonly purchased ergonomic mice.
There is such a wide variety of ergonomic mouse available that finding one which is best fit and most suitable to daily tasks is easy. There are left handed mice, wireless mice, multiple sized and varying types for optimum comfort.
Common types of ergonomic mouse:
These mice prevent injuries such as repetitive strain which occur with constant transferral and stretching from mouse to keyboard. They sit directly in front of the body and attach with the keyboard to produce an all-in-one mouse and keyboard solution – avoiding reaching to the side.
These mice avoid the need to ‘grip’ the mouse as all cursor movement is produced by moving the integrated ball on the mouse. It also avoids shoulder strain occurring from use of a standard mice which require moving the whole mouse, helping with shoulder injuries and conditions such as arthritis.
These work in the same way as the touch pad on a laptop as cursor movement is controlled by movement on the touchpad surface. This again avoids the need for any gripping or shoulder movement. Touchpads with pens such as the Wacom Bamboo are also available to reduce the repetitive strain on the fingers.
Vertical mice avoid forearm twisting as described above. They keep the arm in the natural upright ‘handshake’ position which provides a much more comfortable and strain free solution. Alternative ergonomic mice are available in left/right hand and different sizes to ensure a bespoke solution.
Ergonomic Mice Placement
To be a truly ergonomic mouse, it should be placed as near to the body and the keyboard as possible to avoid overreaching. The ‘handshake’ position of the Evoluent mouse is ideal.
