With more people working longer hours at their computers, I think it’s safe to say that repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) are going to be on the rise. Having suffered from my own RSI, carpal tunnel syndrome, and the ensuing physical therapy and surgery, I can share some of my favorite tools for keeping the numbness at bay. (Disclaimer: This isn’t to be taken as medical advice, of course; these are simply things that have worked for me).
1. Smart Glove - I tried several pairs of gloves and braces before I found these wonderful gloves. They’re quick to put on and remove. The don’t interfere with finger movement like so many gloves and braces do. The padding underneath really supports and cushions my wrists. They’re washable and have held up for years. Highly recommended for use at the computer. Retails for $19.99 on manufacturer’s site.
2. Cat’s Paw - This simple, inexpensive little product mimics several of the movements I did in physical therapy—and physical therapy was infinitely more beneficial to me than surgery was. To use the Cat’s Paw, you insert your fingers and thumb into the holes and spread your fingers. The tension really works your muscles and feels wonderful. Now you could probably find a rubber band or make some device that will mimic what the Cat’s Paw does, but for $14.95 I think it’s a good buy.
3. Logitech Marble Mouse - This isn’t a mouse, but a trackball (it’s not marble, either, for that matter). Switching to a trackball really reduced my symptoms. One of the beautiful things about this trackball is that you can switch it to use on your left or right side. Since I’m right-handed and tend to use my right hand for more activities, I keep the trackball on my left. This also has the benefit of allowing me to simultaneously use my left hand to move the pointer/cursor while writing with my right hand. Retails for just $19.95 on Logitech’s web site.
I have many other things I do, such as take rest breaks, do exercises and stretches, and so on. However, these three things are tools I wouldn’t be without. When they fail (and they’ve all been going strong for years), I’ll be replacing them with the same models.
Photo credit: Ifyr
