Mousing Ergo Fundamentals

The little mouse that came with the computer is probably not ergonomically correct. Still, when mousing makes you ache, the mouse itself is probably only part of the problem. Too many physical dynamics are involved. Here are some tips to reduce ErgoAche resulting from mousing:

• Overall, the hand should maintain a neutral position.
• Movement of the arm and hand should be minimal when mousing. The mouse that comes with most computers requires unnecessary movement.
• The mouse should truly fit the hand using it. Personal preference is more than a matter of taste Š it could be the difference between comfort and pain.
• As appropriate, use a mouse designed for left or right hand use. Otherwise mousing is counter-intuitive and creates unnecessary and repeated muscle stress on the back of the hand.
• While mousing, don’t press your wrist or hand into hard edges, and don’t create a "stretch" where your entire arm hangs from the mouse hand. (See pages 10, 11, and 12 for wrist rests and other solutions to this problem.)
• Place the mouse within very easy reach, ideally right next to the keyboard. Some people prefer it slightly higher or lower. (See pages 2-5 for platforms that accomplish this.)
• Your mouse hand should not be tense when using the device. People handle mouses differently, and some are far more relaxed using an oversize mouse, a trackball, or a touchpad.