A method of typing to reduce repetitive strain injuries comprises coordinating the movement of all moving parts from the shoulders to the fingers to avoid dissonant movement of any one part, starting with the hand and forearm in a natural profile. Each separately moving part is limited to movement to within its mid-range of motion. For speed, a finger is lifted and the hand is rotated to amplify the elevation. Conversely, lowering of the finger to strike a key involves rotating the hand in a reverse direction. The fingers are simply dropped, aiming at the top of the key to eliminate wasteful downward force and reduce finger-to-keyboard impact. Major movement of the fingers about the keyboard occurs simultaneously with upper and lower arm motion to eliminate stressful finger motions. A mouse manipulation method also employ the hand in a natural profile. An instruction methods for both the typing and mouse manipulation techniques teaches the student staring from the natural profile and moving in the mid-range of joint articulation.
This invention relates to an improved form of computer mouse. In particular, the physical form of this mouse is designed such that the hand position required to manipulate the mouse is a natural "resting" or neutral position. This position will allow the mouse to be used for long periods of time while minimizing pain and disability in the hand and wrist. The hand is inclined to the horizontal plane typically at an angle of at least 50 degrees. The fingers are flexed, the thumb and index finger are opposed and in close proximity. The wrist is not pulled backwards nor drooped, nor is it angled to one side or the other. There is no deviated wrist movement. Wrist movement is in the natural plane of the wrist.
An apparatus and method for reducing, preventing, lessening and treating the incidence and severity of Repetitive Strain Injuries ("RSI") comprising a combination of computer software and hardware that provides a "prompt" and system whereby the computer operator exercises their upper extremities during data entry and word processing thereby maximizing the excursion (range of motion) of the joints involved directly and indirectly in computer operation. In summary, the apparatus and method of the present invention includes 1) specialized target means with optional counters which serves as "goals" or marks towards which the hands of the typist are directed during prolonged key entry, 2) software that directs the movement of the limbs to and from the keyboard, and 3) software that individualizes the frequency and intensity of the exercise sequence.
A system and method for teaching proper hand positioning for using a keyboard. The system includes not allowing a lesson for learning to operate the keyboard to begin until home keys are depressed simultaneously. Additionally, the lesson will be interrupted periodically and will not continue until the home keys are depressed simultaneously.
An ergonomic computer mouse is provided. The mouse has at least one signaling device that is positioned to accommodate a user's fingers when they are in a relaxed, nonextended state and the user's hand is resting on the mouse. The user may actuate a signaling device by exerting pressure on the signaling device in an upward direction, toward the rear of the mouse, or both. The mouse thus reduces fatigue on the user's hand and arm.
