Wrist Support & Palm Rest Information for Reduction of RSI Symptoms

Should You Use Wrist Supports or Palm Rests?

Wrist and palm supports are heavily debated in the ergonomics world. Some experts advise against it because resting the wrist on something might cause compression under the wrist, reducing circulation. These experts recommend keeping your hands floating over the computer keyboard like you would when playing the piano.

Other experts realize that most people tend to rest their wrists regardless and that it is better to have a wrist support than not because not having anything there raises your wrists so they are bent at unnatural angle when you rest.

What Should You Look for in a Good Wrist Rest / Palm Support?

Wrist/palm supports should be about 2 to 3 in. wide and flat. This helps distribute the weight of the arms over a wide area. Avoid curved supports since they tend to focus the support on only one small part of your wrist.

Good wrist supports will have a bit of give but not so much that they don't offer support. Wide, dense flat foam supports work well. Also, many therapists favor gel pads supports.

Recommended Wrist Rests and Supports

Gel Pads -- Gel pads for the keyboard and mouse give your hands some place to rest when you're not typing. For a little extra, you can get gel pads that can be heated in the microwave or chilled in the freezer for added comfort.

MouseGlider -- This wrist rest is just a small easily movable puck that supports your wrist, available for either keyboard or mouse.