Repetitive Strain Injury – Can the Handshake Mouse Help? by Dr Kathleen Thompson

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Modern living and using computers 24/7 is causing an increasing problem with repetitive strain injury (RSI) in the arms and wrists. It is due to repetitive activities (the clue is in the name) and can cause pain and tenderness, with or without tingling, numbness and weakness.

It is important, and indeed a legal requirement, to have your work-station checked, so that your posture at the computer is as good as possible. However the type of computer mouse we use can also make a difference.

BakkerElkhuizen take RSI seriously and have developed different mouse designs, which aim to keep the arm and wrist in a more natural position.

They asked me to road-test a Handshake Mouse, which has a ‘vertical grip’. This means that your hand and wrist is positioned as if you were shaking somebody’s hand (see the diagram).

 

 

Consequently the wrist doesn’t bend sideways as much and the lower arm needs less inward rotation. This reduces the amount of muscle activity required to use it, when compared to using a standard mouse. Thus you can have all of the speed of a mouse (compared to trackballs or touchpads) but without the pain.

The Handshake Mouse has two buttons and a scroll wheel. It also has a powerful laser sensor and the option to choose between 400/1600/3200 DPI (gosh). It’s available as wireless or corded.  It works with Windows Vista, 7,8, 10, and OS X operating systems. It is intended for small/medium-sized hands (their Evoluent model is better for large hands)

The benefits of these vertical mice was demonstrated in 16 volunteers (See Further Information) and other studies, and, with correct training, can reduce the risk factors for RSI.

I have to say, the sample I tested was extremely light and comfortable. and I think I heard my wrist whispering ‘Thank you’.  The buttons were positioned so I didn’t need to move my finger to use them and they required very little pressure. Overall a very comfortable experience.

I don’t see us using computers less over time, so it is well worth doing what we can to reduce risk of RSI, and at around £62, probably money well-spent.

 

 By Dr K Thompson, author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast cancer – by a doctor who knows

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A7DM42Q http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7DM42Q

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Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice

Further Information:

  1. Biomechanics and performance when using a standard and a vertical computer mouse P Quemelo & E Ramos Viera Ergonomics, Vol 56, 2013, Issue 8

 

  1. Upper limb disorders in the workplace