At VSI Risk Management & Ergonomics, Inc., we believe in optimizing every aspect of your workplace ergonomics through comprehensive ergonomic assessments to reduce risk, increase comfort, and improve productivity. While much attention is often given to desks, chairs, and monitors during an ergonomic evaluation of workstations, one of the most overlooked tools in your workspace is the mouse and the wrong one can lead to long-term discomfort or even injury.
Table of Contents
Why Your Mouse Matters
If you spend a significant portion of your day at a computer, you’re likely using your mouse thousands of times a day. That repetitive movement, combined with poor wrist or hand posture, can contribute to:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs)
- Tendinitis
- Wrist and forearm pain
- Decreased productivity due to discomfort
An ergonomic mouse is designed to support a more natural hand position, reduce muscle strain, and minimize movement. Simply switching to the right device can make a measurable difference in both short-term comfort and long-term health.
Common Types of Ergonomic Mice
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to ergonomic equipment, and mice are no exception. Here are a few common types to consider:
Vertical Mouse
A vertical mouse is rotated to align with the natural handshake position of your wrist and forearm. This can help reduce forearm twisting and wrist extension, two major contributors to repetitive strain.
Best for: Users with wrist pain or early signs of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Trackball Mouse
Rather than moving the mouse itself, users move a built-in ball with their fingers or thumb. This can reduce shoulder and arm movement significantly, making it a good choice for users with limited mobility or tight workspaces.
Best for: Users with shoulder or upper arm pain, or those in confined workstations.
Ergonomic Contoured Mouse
These mice are designed to fit the natural curves of the hand. They typically include thumb rests, soft materials, and a slightly sloped design to reduce wrist extension.
Best for: General office use, especially for those who prefer a more traditional feel with better support.
Pen-Style Mouse
Designed to mimic the grip and motion of a pen, this style encourages a neutral hand position and reduces grip force.
Best for: Precision work such as graphic design or drafting, or users with finger stiffness.
What to Look for When Choosing an Ergonomic Mouse
When evaluating which ergonomic mouse is right for your employees or your personal use, consider the following:
- Size & Fit: The mouse should fit the hand comfortably, not too large or too small.
- Grip Style: Consider how you typically hold the mouse (palm, claw, or fingertip) and choose a design that supports that grip.
- Programmable Buttons: Extra buttons can reduce the need for repetitive keyboard shortcuts or mouse clicks.
- Wired vs. Wireless: Wireless options provide more flexibility and reduce cord drag, but may introduce latency in some environments.
- Compatibility: Ensure the mouse works seamlessly with your existing devices and operating systems.
Our Recommendation: Start With a Trial
Before committing to an office-wide ergonomic mouse upgrade, we recommend trialing a few different models with your team. Every individual’s comfort and needs are different, and what works for one person might not be ideal for another.
As part of our ergonomic assessment services, VSI can help you test and evaluate a variety of ergonomic mice to find the best fit for your organization. We consider work tasks, user preferences, existing symptoms, and workstation configurations to make the best recommendation.
Small Equipment, Big Results
Improving office ergonomics doesn’t always require large-scale changes. Sometimes, it’s as simple as swapping out a standard mouse for one that better supports natural movement. At VSI, we’ve seen first-hand how these small changes can reduce discomfort, prevent injuries, and boost workplace morale.
If your team is experiencing wrist or forearm pain, or you’re just ready to invest in more comfortable, efficient workstations, contact VSI Risk Management & Ergonomics, Inc. for a full ergonomic evaluation.
Need help choosing the right ergonomic tools?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation or on-site assessment.