How to Shop for an Ergonomic Mouse

By eHow Health Editor

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Prolonged use of a computer mouse can lead to muscle tension and wrist pain that may become debilitating over time. If you are one of millions of people tied to a desk and PC all day, give your body the gift of ergonomic workstation design. Shop for a mouse designed to reduce wrist, hand and shoulder fatigue so that you can ergonomically optimize your workspace.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step1
Visit an office supply store to try out several types of computer mice. Since most people spend more time using the mouse than the keyboard, it is critical that you select a comfortable model to avoid a repetitive stress injury or carpel tunnel syndrome.
Step2
Shop for a wireless, optical mouse. While it may cost a bit more, manipulating the mouse is simpler when there is no cord. Optical mice are widely available in office supply stores and online, as well. Check out Air Technologies Computer Ergonomic SuperStore for dozens of options (see Resources below).
Step3
Take a look at 3M's ergonomic joystick mouse. Designed to keep your arms and shoulders in a neutral position, the mouse comes in two different grip sizes (see Resources below).
Step4
Look for a specially designed leftie mouse if you're left-handed. If you're sufficiently ambidextrous, buy a mouse suited for righties or lefties so that you can periodically switch hands. Alternating mouse hands keeps you from acquiring an overuse injury in your dominant hand.
Step5
Buy a touchpad if you prefer a finger-driven tablet over your old-school mouse. Designed after the touchpads found on many laptops, this type of maneuvering may be more comfortable if you're accustomed to using a notebook computer. Cirque was the first to develop this type of technology, and offers several types of touchpads with varying prices and specifications (see Resources below).
Step6
Practice with your new mouse. Depending on which ergonomic mouse you choose, you may need to retrain your brain (and your hand) to use it efficiently. Be patient with this learning curve and you'll quickly overcome it.

Tips & Warnings

  • Overcome your mouse dependence by familiarizing yourself with shortcut keys that give you frequent opportunities to relax your wrist and hand.
  • Shop for a Bluetooth portable laptop mouse for travel and presenting ease. Some of these mini mice even work up to 60 feet from your computer.

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eHow Article: How to Shop for an Ergonomic Mouse

eHow Health Editor

eHow Health Editor

Category: Health

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