COMPUTER POINTING DEVICES

Pointing devices such as mice and trackballs have become an integral components of computer systems. Users are reporting increased upper extremity discomfort after using these devices for extended periods of time. The pointing device should be closely evaluated for proper placement and operation, especially if pain is unilateral and present in the arm operating the pointing device.

You should try to make changes in your work habits, type of pointing device used, or set up of your work station if you feel you are experiencing pain due to use of the pointing device. Some possible solutions include the following:

WORK HABITS

  • Limit duration and intensity of use of the pointing device as much as possible. Use keystroke combinations to reduce the need to use the pointing device whenever possible.
  • Customize your pointing device to your personal needs and skill level. This can be done by programming the mouse options on your computer.
  • Forearm pain can result from repeated or prolonged static positioning of the fingers over the pointer. Rest your fingers whenever possible by placing them gently on the surface of the pointing device when in use.
  • Avoid prolonged and excessive force when using a pointing device. When you are not using the pointer, release it to relax your hand. Hold the pointer as gently as possible when you are using it. Many users hold the device much harder than necessary.
  • Use caution when using stylus type pointing devices. Reduce grasp as much as possible when using the device. Avoid prolonged pressure as much as possible.
  • Switching the use of hands after experiencing pain in your primary hand or arm should be done with great caution. Unless you change your technique or device, switching hands will only result in discomfort in the other arm after long-term use.
  • Take a brief break or pause every 30 minutes when working at a computer. Both your arms and your eyes need breaks to avoid fatigue. Move around to get your blood to circulate and re-energize your muscles.
  • Be aware of your body and take measures to avoid discomfort. If experiencing discomfort, make changes or seek advice early.

TYPE OF POINTING DEVICE

  • Shoulder pain frequently results from frequent use of a mouse. Switching to a trackball may help to reduce this problem. A trackball reduces the need to complete shoulder movements by transferring movement to the forearm. Caution should be used to avoid development of forearm pain. Start gradually, and build up your tolerance to use the trackball.
  • Use of a thumb-ball or small trackball should be done with caution. Be aware of any thumb discomfort that might occur and seek guidance on changing your technique or the device. Avoid over-using your thumb when using a trackball.
  • Select a trackball or pointing device with a drag-lock feature.. This option allows you to click on an object and hold without depressing the button. The hold can be released with a second click. Logitech (800.231.7717) has a mouse with drag-lock capability. It should be selected with caution due to large size and high activation force requirements.
  • If your work requires repeated button clicking, it is important to select a trackball or mouse with low activation force requirements. The Microsoft Mouse (206.882.8080) has low button activation force requirements.
  • Some users have successfully used trackballs that have foot pedals to reduce the load on the fingers. The Kraft Trackball (619.724.7146) and the Curtis Trackball (800.955.5544) are available with foot pedal options. The No-hands Mouse ( 800.57MOUSE, www.earthlink.net/~footmouse) is another foot operated pointing device using dual pedals to control the pointer.
  • Hand size is important to consider when selecting a pointing device. Soreness in the ring, little finger or wrist could be indicators that your pointing device is too small or too large. The device should fit comfortably with the palm of your hand resting in a neutral position. The Contour Mouse in a variety of sizes for the left or right hand ( 510.829.3220, www.sales@contourdes.com).
  • Glidepoint pads can replace the mouse or the trackball. They require less desk space and operate by sliding a finger or a stylus across the pad. Buttons or taps of the fingers can be used to activate the pointer. They do require direct contact between the pad and the finger when the finger is used to operate the device. Individuals with sensitive fingertips could find this irritating or uncomfortable.

WORK STATION SET UP

  • If you are experiencing shoulder or neck pain, evaluate your posture and work station height. It may be too high or too low. You should be able to reach the pointing device without having to elevate your shoulders, bend your elbow more than 100 degrees, or reach far forward.
  • Elbow pain can result from poor posture or positioning. Make sure the pointing device is at the proper height and within easy reach. Avoid repeated bending of your elbow when using the pointing device.
  • Avoid placing your wrist in excessive extension by selecting a trackball that fits the size and shape of your hand or through the use of a mouserest or pad placed in front of the trackball.
  • If your work requires high intensity use of a pointing device, consider use of a forearm support or armrest to provide forearm and shoulder support. Mo-Pads ( 800.225.2610) are available to wear over your forearm to provide a padded surface that easily glides.
  • Special surfaces such as the 3-M Precise Mousing Surface are available to improve the contact of the mouse roller-ball and the table surface. These reduce excessive movements and force required to operate the mouse.
  • Mouse bridges or caddies are mousing surfaces that fit over the numeric portion of the keyboard, shortening the reach for the mouse.

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