When sitting for prolonged periods at your desk, soreness and stiffness in your upper body can set in. In addition, bad posture and improper use of your computer mouse and keyboard could increase your risk of developing repetitive strain injuries (RSI). And when you’re suffering from pain and discomfort, you could be less productive and even have to take time off work to heal.
For a comfortable, productive workspace, learning how to hold a computer mouse the proper ergonomic way is a must. Keep reading to learn the crucial steps in using your mouse correctly to work without disruption.
How to hold a computer mouse ergonomically
Practicing these fundamental steps can help you use your computer mouse comfortably while reducing the risk of pain and injury.
Buy a mouse that fits your hand
Have you always bought the same mouse everyone else in your office uses?
Chances are that it may not fit your hand correctly. For optimum comfort, you should pick a computer mouse that is the correct size to fit in your hand without causing strain.
If your mouse is too small, your fingers may overhang at the front, or your palm may rest on the desk top. If too large, you may have to stretch your fingers to reach the buttons. Both scenarios could cause undue stress to your joints and ligaments.
A customizable, ergonomic mouse such as our Goldtouch FlexMouse can help you adjust the fit, so your hand is cradling the entire mouse comfortably. You can adjust the size by changing the mousing back, so your hand rests naturally without straining.
Avoid planting your wrist and forearm
Resting your arms or wrists on the desk can be tempting as you use your computer mouse. Try to avoid this, and instead, keep your whole arm moving while moving your mouse.
Planting your arm or wrist on the desk’s surface as you work can strain the muscles in your hand and even trap nerves, which could cause injury over time. When mousing, your arm should feel relaxed.
Use your wrist rest properly
It’s a common misconception that you should use a wrist rest while you’re typing or mousing. Instead, the gel or foam pad is made for when you’re at rest between working.
Just like planting your arms on the desk as you work, misusing a wrist rest could do more harm than good, putting strain on your hands and positioning your wrists at an unnatural angle.
Keep elbows at the optimum angle
To keep your upper body at a comfortable angle while doing desk work, you should keep your elbows at around a 90-degree angle, with your forearms parallel to the desk. In addition, you should take care not to have your mouse too far to the side to avoid reaching too far to use it.
Position your computer mouse as close to your keyboard as possible, so it’s easy to reach without overstretching or angling your body uncomfortably.
Take regular breaks
You’re most likely aware that sitting in the same position all day is bad for your health. Even when using a computer mouse correctly, you should still take breaks when you can. Moving your body regularly throughout your workday keeps your circulation flowing and helps warm up stiff muscles.
It doesn’t have to involve a full-on workout — going for a brief walk and doing gentle stretches can help you avoid injuries at work.
To remind yourself to take regular breaks, set a timer. There are browser extensions to help you do this, as well as apps offering desk exercises to keep you flexible when you’ve been working away at your computer all day.
In summary
Choosing the correct computer mouse is as important as using your mouse correctly. Ensure your whole hand cradles your mouse and your fingers and palm aren’t overhanging.
Only use your wrist rest when you’re not typing or mousing, and avoid planting your forearms or wrists at all costs.
Position your desk at the correct height, so your arms are bent at the elbow at around 90 degrees, and put your mouse as close to your keyboard as possible while still having freedom of movement.
And remember to take breaks!
Find a GoldTouch mouse that fits you perfectly by browsing our range of ergonomic mice.
