Recently there was a question about using a type of mouse that engages the usage of the thumb and if this tool would be helpful to prevent the various repetitive strain injuries.
It is important to recognize that we are still repeating the same motion, maybe utilizing different muscles, but still supporting micro-traumas to muscles and tissues in a new position—in this example using the thumb!
In my own experience, my thumb and the muscle in my palm right below the thumb became extremely damaged and almost unusable due to using a simple mouse that came with my computer.
To support oneself fully, mix up all of the tools that you are using on a daily basis ensuring different muscles are being utilized throughout the day. Better yet, to learn a Dictate program such as Dragon Dictate found on nuance.com giving you an incredible opportunity to become hands-free —or balance this usage in tandem with more limited mouse usage.
It is also important to take micro-breaks consistently within an hour. Alpine Physical Therapy recommends taking a 20 second break every 20 min. to do something for yourself, whether it is a deep breath, or implementing stretching or getting up from your computer.
Try these tips throughout the day!* Reference: End carpal tunnel without surgery, Kate Montgomery
•Hand circles
• Fist clinches
• Wrist bends
• Finger bends
• Finger rotations
• Finger pulls
• Handshakes
• Finger spread
• Finger palm touch
• Finger thumb touch
• Finger joint bends
• Finger pinch
ยช Palm rub
Also implement the usage of this program called RSIguard.com available for free download for 45 days that will help you to exercise and remind you to take these breaks!
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