Computer Mouse Information:: ergonomic mouse, alternative mouse, ergonomic mice

What Is an Ergonomic Mouse?

Your normal computer mouse was not designed to ward off injuries caused by repetitive clicking. An ergonomic computer mouse is designed to make things easier on the user. In some cases, the buttons and mouse are bigger, sometimes the mouse is clicked with the thumb (a stronger digit than the fingers), and some ergonomic mice don't involve clicking at all.

Types of Ergonomic Mice/Mouse:

A simple ergonomic mouse is the 3M Ergonomic Mouse which works much like a joystick.

The Smart-Nav by Natural Point takes the ergonomic computer mouse to the extreme. It is a completely hands-free mouse that accepts input through a sensor that sits on top of your computer and tracks small movements of your head.

You can also buy an alternative computer mouse, such as a device that will allow you to move the cursor and click the "mouse" with pedals under your feet.

The QuillMouse Ergonomic Mouse is similar to your regular mouse but it is rotated sideways for a more natural wrist alignment.

There is also software available that can change the way your regular computer mouse works. MouseTool is a freeware program that works in conjunction with your regular mouse, but it does the clicking for you whenever you stop moving your hand (you can program the length of time it waits before clicking). With some practice, it can be used for cutting and pasting and other editing functions as well.

As you can see, an ergonomic mouse can come in many shapes and forms. You may want to try several to find what works best for you.