Evidence shows the amount you use a mouse is directly proportional to the risk of developing hand, wrist, forearm, arm or shoulder discomfort, pain or injury (also known as musculo-skeletal disorders or MSD’s). Why? Because our soft tissues do not like too much repetition, holding one position for too long, postures which are not natural or neutral, pressure on delicate tissues or cold temperatures. Unfortunately using a mouse can expose the body to any or all of these. And the more you mouse, the more your body is exposed.
Let’s look at each of these factors.
If your hand, wrist or forearm pain stays we suggest you arrange a workstation assessment by an experienced therapist.
Many people use the mouse much more than necessary because they don’t know computer shortcuts and keystrokes. What will help you will depend on what work is done on the computer. Some newer keyboards have time saving shortcut keys. Commands such as COPY, PASTE, SAVE, PRINT, EMAIL, UNDO can be done with one keystroke.
Written by Judy Ross, Registered Occupational Therapist