What Is Your Wrist Doing When You Use The Mouse? A Guide To Mouse Ergonomics
When it comes to adopting an ergonomically sound wrist position when using the mouse, it is important to assess for the size of the mouse relative to the hand, wrist extension and ulnar/radial deviation. Prolonged use of the mouse when the mouse is the incorrect size and the wrist is placed in awkward postures may increase your risk of developing musculoskeletal aches and pains
The image above represents some of the more common awkward postures adopted by computer users. Some of the key tips that I recommend when reviewing mouse ergonomics is:
- Ensure the hand can sit comfortably on the mouse.
- If your wrist sits in an extended position when using a mouse, a wrist support might help create a more neutral position.
- When using the mouse, assess your mouse use and see if you use it with your wrist in a deviated position. Sometimes this can be habit or simply how you use the mouse.
- Where possible, use short keys if your job requires high levels of mouse button use.
- Try swapping the mouse from left to right side to give each hand/arm a short break.
- Take micro pauses from the mouse (10 seconds every 5 minutes) to give your smaller hand and wrist muscles a break.
- Try a vertical mouse or ortho mouse if you find yourself having ongoing issues with the mouse. These types of mouse allow the worker to adopt a more neutral arm and wrist position.
This blog post was written by Osteopath Heath Williams who is owner and director of Principle Four Osteopathy and Corporate Work Health Australia.
Principle Four Osteopathy is one of Melbourne City CBD leading Osteopathy clinics. At the clinic we treat a wide range of clients, ranging from the office worker, exercise enthusiast to athlete. We have 3 experienced osteopaths working across both of the clinics.
The Melbourne City CBD clinic is located at 29 Somerset Place (basement), close to the corner of Elizabeth St and Little Bourke in the Melbourne City CBD. Our premises adjoin the Jon Weller Personal Training Studio, a fully-equipped training space which allows clients to combine their osteopathy treatment with exercise tutorials or specific training programs and rehabilitation.
The Docklands clinic is located at 717 Bourke St (Ground Floor), beneath the Channel 9 building near the walkway from Southern Cross Train Station to Etihad Stadium. Our premises adjoin Pilates on Bourke, a fully-equipped pilates and yoga training space which allows clients to combine their osteopathy treatment with exercise tutorials, pilates or specific training programs and rehabilitation.
To speak to an Osteopath or book an appointment at Principle Four Osteopathy, please book online or call 03 9670 9290.