Why Should you Use an Ergonomic Keyboard and Mouse?

Shoulder, wrist and hand pain is common in computer users due to the repetitive nature of typing and using the mouse. Additionally, the duration of computer use has been shown to be an important risk factor for the development of these symptoms. As the workforce shifts more towards computer interfaced work and the hours spent working in these environments increases, using an ergonomic keyboard and mouse becomes a necessity.

On average, a person does 14 000 keystrokes and 9 000 mouse clicks per day. Depending on the person’s posture, along with the repetition and force generated, this can lead to increased stress and injury to the muscles and tendons of the wrists and hands.

If you are thinking about using an ergonomic keyboard and mouse, here are the top reasons why you should make the change:

1. They keep your wrists in a flat, neutral position

Standard keyboards have a higher profile and force your wrists into an extended position, which can lead to overloading of the muscles in this area and repetitive strain injuries to the tendons. With its unique compact design, the Number slide Keyboard offers a low profile and built-in numeric pad which slides out easily when needed. This means lower impact and more versatility.

Using a standard mouse requires you to twist your wrist. A vertical mouse is an ergonomic solution as it allows you to rest your wrist in a natural vertical position, much like how your hands would be positioned if standing with your arms resting at your sides.

2. Reduce force generation required by your muscles

When using an ergonomic keyboard and mouse, less grip strength is required. The keys on the Ergoapt Compact Wireless Keyboard require low activation forces, which reduces the effort required to type. If clicking the mouse is causing hand pain, the Penguin Ambidextrous Vertical Mouse, allows you to wrap your hand and fingers naturally around the mouse which can lessen the tension in your hands when using it.

3. Diminish existing pain and prevent injuries

If you are already experiencing shoulder, wrist, or hand pain, investing in an ergonomic keyboard and mouse is critical. If the repetitive action of reaching across the keyboard to use the mouse is aggravating your shoulder pain, a compact keyboard is beneficial. If using a standard mouse is causing wrist pain, consider changing to an Anker Vertical Mouse to alleviate your symptoms.

Prevention of injuries is the motive for using an ergonomic keyboard and mouse. It is better to get set up correctly, rather than putting up with discomfort until it becomes an issue.

4. Different designs to suit your specific requirements

Everyone is built differently and the way we work is different. Therefore, there are a wide range of options when considering what ergonomic keyboard and mouse is best for you.