Did you know that your standard mouse could be overworking your muscles and leading to pain or discomfort in your hand, wrist, forearm, elbow and even your upper back and shoulders? Using a regular mouse requires you to make small, exact movements with your hand, fingers, and thumb that can overwork your muscles and lead to strain. In addition, the shape and placement of a regular mouse can make it awkward to reach, leading to poor posture.
The good news is that an ergonomic mouse can help prevent this. In this guide, we cover all you need to know about ergonomic mice, including the different types, who should use one, and the benefits of making the switch from a regular mouse.
What Is an Ergonomic Mouse?
An ergonomic mouse is designed to fit the natural position of your hand and promote a healthier forearm position in order to reduce strain and long-term pain that is otherwise associated with regular mouse usage.
Types of Ergonomic Mouse
Ergonomic mice come in various designs to accommodate different user preferences and ergonomic needs. Here are the main types of ergonomic mice:|
Contoured Contoured mice are shaped to fit the natural curves of your hand, providing support to the palm and fingers. |
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Vertical Vertical mice are designed to keep your hand in a handshake position, which reduces the twisting of the forearm and wrist. |
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Trackball Trackball mice have a stationary base with a movable ball that you manipulate with your fingers, thumb, or palm to move the cursor. |
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Roll Bar Roll bar mice, also known as roller bar mice or central pointing devices, feature a horizontal roller bar positioned above or near the keyboard. Users control the cursor by moving and clicking the roller bar. |
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Pen Mouse Pen mice resemble a pen and are held in a similar grip. The cursor is moved by tilting the pen or by using a small trackpad at the base. |
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What Is the Difference Between a Regular and Ergonomic Mouse?
A regular mouse is symmetrical and flat, requiring the hand to adopt a pronated position where the palm faces down. An ergonomic mouse, on the other hand, is contoured to support a neutral hand position. This promotes a more relaxed grip where pressure is distributed across the hand, whereas a regular mouse encourages a claw or fingertip grip that can lead to strain over time. In addition, an ergonomic mouse often has built-in wrist support - or can be used in conjunction with a mouse or desk pad to maintain a neutral wrist position - whereas regular mice often lack wrist support altogether.
In terms of button placement, ergonomic mice have strategically placed buttons to minimise movement. In some instances, there are additional buttons that can be customised for your convenience.
In addition to this, an ergonomic mouse promotes a straighter sitting posture, which can reduce the chances of musculoskeletal disorders and back pain. A standard mouse, on the other hand, can lead to overreaching and poor posture.
Who Needs an Ergonomic Mouse?
Everyone who uses a mouse on a regular basis would benefit from switching to an ergonomic mouse. However, there are certain groups of people that would benefit more than others.
1. Office Workers
Individuals who spend long hours at a computer are prone to repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), such as carpal tunnel syndrome. An ergonomic mouse can help reduce the risk of these injuries by providing better hand positioning and support for day-to-day tasks.
2. Gamers
Gamers often engage in prolonged and intense mouse usage. An ergonomic mouse can enhance comfort and performance, reducing fatigue during extended gaming sessions and lowering the risk of RSIs. This can be supported with a proper desk setup for gamers.
3. Graphic Designers & Digital Artists
Precision and prolonged use are crucial for graphic designers and other digital artists. An ergonomic mouse can improve accuracy and reduce strain, making it easier to create detailed work without discomfort.
4. Individuals with Pre-Existing Conditions
Those with arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or any pre-existing musculoskeletal conditions should use an ergonomic mouse to alleviate additional stress on their joints and muscles.
Benefits of an Ergonomic Mouse
1. Reduces Strain and Discomfort
An ergonomic mouse minimises the strain on your hand, wrist, and forearm by promoting a more natural posture and reducing awkward movements. This helps prevent discomfort and pain, in particular for the underside of the wrist where the excessive pressure from a regular mouse can impact the tendons and nerves.
2. Prevents Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs)
Repetitive movements often lead to repetitive muscle strain (and RSIs). An ergonomic mouse can help prevent common RSIs such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis by encouraging less movement and therefore less fatigue.
3. Improves Posture
A mouse that places your arm in a natural handshake position where your forearm is straight encourages a more ergonomic posture, which can reduce muscular strain.
4. Improves Precision & Control
Ergonomic mice often come with features that enhance precision and control, such as customisable buttons and adjustable DPI settings, which are especially beneficial for tasks requiring fine motor skills.
With a wide range of designs and features, ergonomic mice can also be catered to different preferences and requirements, making it easier to find a model that suits your specific needs.
5. Increases Productivity Levels
Comfortable use translates to less fatigue and discomfort, allowing users to work more efficiently and for longer periods without needing frequent breaks due to pain or discomfort. In addition, the precision and control that an ergonomic mouse can decrease mistakes and help you get things done faster, overall increasing your productivity levels.
How Do I Know If My Current Mouse Is Ergonomic?
Wondering if your current mouse is ergonomic? Here are the key things to consider.
- An ergonomic mouse typically has a contoured or non-traditional shape that supports the natural curve or position of your hand.
- Your wrist should remain in a neutral position while using the mouse; it shouldn’t be bent, twisted or at an otherwise unnatural angle.
- If you find yourself stretching or making awkward movements to click, your mouse might not be ergonomic.
- In addition, if you experience discomfort, pain or fatigue after using your mouse, this might be because it isn’t ergonomic.
Conclusion
In conclusion, switching to an ergonomic mouse can significantly improve your comfort and overall well-being, particularly if you spend extended periods using a computer. By promoting a natural hand position and reducing strain, an ergonomic mouse helps prevent discomfort, repetitive strain injuries, and poor posture.
Looking for a mouse for your home, office or workspace? Check out our full collection of ergonomic accessories, available for next working day delivery if ordered by 3pm. Need additional help choosing a mouse? Get in contact with our expert team with any queries.
Otherwise, our blog provides more useful tips on ergonomic office accessories for a more balanced lifestyle. Feel free to contact us with any questions, with the handy live chat feature on our site, or via email at info@ergodesks.co.uk.
