Many people who use a computer mouse suffer from soreness in the hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder or neck. Frequent or prolonged use of the mouse and keyboard over time can cause musculoskeletal strain, and finding an effective solution can be difficult. However, most ergonomists agree that the design and position of the mouse and keyboard, the position of your body, and the way you use the mouse can play a major role regarding the potential risk of discomfort or injury.

MOUSE QUICK TIPS 

• Keep the mouse close to the keyboard. 

• Alternate hands with which you operate the mouse/pointer. 

• Use keyboard short cuts to reduce extended use. 

POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS 

• Position the mouse/pointer to allow you to maintain a straight, neutral wrist posture. This may involve adjustments to your chair, desk, keyboard tray, etc.

• Use a mouse platform positioned over the keyboard. This design allows the mouse to be used above the 10-key pad.

• Install a mouse tray next to the keyboard tray.

• Use a keyboard that has a pointing device, such as a touchpad, incorporated into it.

• Use a keyboard without a 10-key pad, which leaves more room for the mouse.

• Reduce the strain on hands by reducing mouse/pointer use. For example: use keyboard functions such page down, or substitute keystrokes for mousing tasks, such as Ctrl+S to save and Ctrl+P to print.

RESOURCES

OSHA’s Computer Workstations eTool

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/computerworkstations/components_pointers.html