• Maintaining static posture for prolonged periods.
• Failing to take frequent short breaks.
• Other environmental and psychosocial factors.
In addition, there have been reports associating the occurrence of RSI with the use of
keyboards, mice, and other input devices. Also, certain medical conditions, such as
rheumatoid arthritis, obesity and diabetes, may predispose some people to this type of
injury.
What if I experience discomfort?
If you are experiencing any discomfort, seek professional medical advice immediately.
Typically, the earlier a problem is diagnosed and treated, the easier it is to resolve.
Mice and Other Input Devices
Various aspects of using mice and other input devices may increase your risk of
discomfort or injury. Observing the following recommendations may reduce that risk.
• Try to keep your hand, wrist, and forearm in a neutral position while using your mouse
or other input device.
• If you use your thumb to rotate the ball on a trackball or spaceball, keep it in a
relaxed, natural shape, and maintain a neutral posture in your hand, wrist, and
forearm.
• Hold the mouse gently by draping your fingers over it. Keep your hand relaxed and
fingers loose. Do not grip the mouse tightly.
• It takes very little pressure or force from your fingers to activate the buttons or scroll
wheel on your mouse, scrolling mouse, trackball, or other input device. Using too
much force can place unnecessary stress on the tendons and muscles in your hands,
wrists, and forearms.
• If you are using a scrolling mouse, be sure to keep your fingers and hand in a relaxed,
neutral position when activating the scroll wheel. Also, this type of mouse features
software that can minimize the number of mouse movements or button clicks.
• When using a mouse, trackball, or other input device, position it as close to the
keyboard as possible, and keep it at the same level as you do not have to stretch while
using it.
• Be sure to keep your mouse and trackball clean. Regular removal of accumulated
dust and dirt helps ensure proper tracking and reduces unnecessary hand and wrist
motions.
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