Hand/finger pain from computing

[cclaerhout]

I've also read that a trackball is a good solution to avoid health problems. I really need to try.

A few years ago, I've been asked to buy some keyboards & mice for a professional use and I was worried a trackball would have been a too big change for some middle-age people that have always used mice, so I've searched a traditional ergonomic mouth. I've read that the Ikari model of Steelseries was really good for a desk use even if it was a gamer device. So I've bought it and when I got them I was a little worried when I saw how big they were. I thought it might have been a problem for women. But it seems they liked this model and the mouse is still in good shape today.
The keyboard is also important. Try to buy a mechanical one. I've chosen the Filco Majestouch (brown switch). It's expensive (must be bought in England since only one company, keyboardco.com, modifies it with a AZERTY layout), but they really really like it.

Last thing: one laptops, trackpoints (Lenovo Thinkpad or a few other devices) are really convenient but after a long use the finger really hurts. It's better to limit their use.

 

[Forsaken]

This sounds like more self-serving BS from the for-profit medical industry. The implication is basically that you can't do anything about your condition so you are advised to see a doctor. And what can the doctor do? They can cut open your wrists or get you dependent on pain meds, or prescribe physical therapy which you can just as easily do yourself with some simple carpal release self-massage, ice packs, stretching routines, and a $100 cold laser and $100 ultrasound wand if you want to use those modalities. There is no need to spend thousands of dollars to have some one do this for you.

As for the genetics thing, I suppose it's possible that people can have genetically narrow carpal tunnels which makes them more susceptible to abuse. That doesn't mean genetics is the cause. You need to address the root cause which is that you are physically abusing your wrists with repetitive action using incorrect ergonomics. Genetically narrow or not, the carpal tunnel will not inflame if you don't abuse it.

The root cause of repetitive strain conditions like this is the repetition. Reduce repetition by exercising the opposing action of your wrist and forearm. That means exercising the supinating action of the forearm in opposition to pronating which is what you do with a mouse. While using a supine forearm posture you can do hand crunches and other finger exercises and stretches. Working the opposing action will reduce the repetition and balance out your hands, wrists, and forearms.

There are also often dietary links to visceral conditions like inflammation, but that is a huge subject. Generally speaking, I suggest eliminating sugars and carb-heavy foods. You don't have to go vegan or anything. For example, when I eat at In-N-Out I get two burgers instead of a burger and fries because fries are pure carbs. And I drink water instead of soda. Mineral supplementation can also have a huge effect, including the trace minerals like boron and manganese which are important for connective tissues like the carpal band. I also personally minimize my dairy intake. I add a little bit of milk to my protein shakes, but I ask for no cheese on my burgers. These are just some simple tips with respect to diet.

But definitely get a thumb trackball like I posted previously. Trust me on this. I got really bad carpal tunnel when I was only 20 years old. I tried massage, ice, meds, everything. The trackball is what cured it. What it does physically is that it slightly eases the pronation of the forearm which opens up the wrist. It also transfers the job of moving the cursor from the entire arm to just the thumb which allows the wrist to relax.

Why get two burgers, just get a low carb 4x4 and then suffer from eating too much.