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Ask HN: Wrist pain from coding?

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Re: Ask HN: Wrist pain from coding?

#11

Post by rtra »

_corbett wrote: post #3

I use an anti-RSI application when this happens which auto-reminds me to take breaks and notices when I cheat (monitoring keyboard and mouse activity). I also always use an external keyboard with nice keys and an external mouse for long stretches on my laptop. I switched to mousing with my left hand instead of right. I learned dvorak, and some people swear by it, but it didn't change much. so, I switched back.

In my experience, ergonomically-sound typing technique is somewhat independent of the keyboard layout, specially if you're not a touch-typist.

It all boils down to watching your wrists. Don't rest your fingers on the home row when you're reaching for distant keys. If your kb layout makes you abuse the weaker fingers that may become a problem though.

Re: Ask HN: Wrist pain from coding?

#12

Post by kls »

rtra wrote: post #9
kls wrote: post #6

Get a roll of toilet paper and put it under your wrist while you use you mouse. It allows for spring due to the cardboard roll while still supporting you wrist.

This may not be a very good idea. By supporting your wrist you will be imobilizing your arm and straining the weaker wrist muscles. Try to avoid the mouse. When you do have to use it, try to maintain your wrist in the neutral position and move your forearm instead, as you'll be using the stronger muscles of your arm and shoulder: http://content.revolutionhealth.com/contentimages/h9991464_0...

You are not immobilizing the wrist rather you are supporting it so it does not carry the weight of your arm. The roll acts as a spring and roller, therefore gives you full range.

Re: Ask HN: Wrist pain from coding?

#13

Post by CyberFonic »

Sounds like "mouse hand" aka RSI / CTS !

Some suggestions:

1. Learn keyboard short cuts, to reduce dependence on reaching for the mouse.

2. Try trackball / different size mouse / tablet. I have a novel (i.e. haven't seen it elsewhere solution) I use a Logitech trackball with the right hand and a USB wheel mouse with the LED window tapped up with the left hand. That way, I'm not making fine motor movements with the right hand whilst clicking etc - which I do with the left hand. Found that taping up the window on the bottom avoided getting interfering mouse movements.

3. Check your posture, table height, screen position. In my experience most chairs are too low, especially if you are 6' or over. Many notebook keyboards are too cramped if you have largish fingers for extended typing. Get a full size high quality keyboard for the bulk work.

4. Take breaks :-)

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