Are Computers Hazardous to your Health?

Nov 21, 2001 11:45 AM

Using A Mouse

Q: What about techniques for using a mouse?

A: Using a mouse may be even more stressful than using the keyboard, since all of the work is done with one hand and primarily one finger. The New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (NYCOSH) recommends using keyboard commands instead of the mouse whenever possible.

When you must use a mouse, place the mouse at keyboard level so you won’t have to bend your wrist up to reach it. Drape your fingers loosely over the mouse instead of griping it tightly. Use your whole arm and shoulder when you move the mouse. Don’t rest your wrist or forearm on the table. Be sure your wrist is straight rather than twisted to either side or down on the desk and be careful not to lift your pinky. Use a light touch when you click. These tips on mouse use can be found in the Pascarelli and Quilter and Brown books.

The right way to mouse. The mouse may be more dangerous than the keyboard, because people tend to hug it with the palm, which forces the wrist to bend. Here's how to do it properly: Keep the forearm and wrist in a straight, neutral
position and bend your elbow at a 90 degree angle. Imagine there's a Ping Pong ball between your palm and the mouse. Grip the mouse lightly and move it using the big muscles of your shoulder, rather than the small ones of your wrist.
Click gently.