Despite all the technological advancements, one device that people aren’t willing to give up is their computer mouse.
However, what you may have begun to realize, of course, is that your mouse may be doing you more harm than good.
The design and the resulting grip means that using a mouse for several hours a day can cause a variety of medical conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome.
Fortunately for you, thanks to specialized mice, you don’t have to live with this discomfort any longer – pain-free scrolling is just a click away.
Of course, finding the best mouse for carpal tunnel can be easier said than done, if you don’t want to look for it.
If you are looking to minimize the amount of effort made during this search, then this guide is for you. Here you will be able to figure out what mouse will benefit your hands the most.
Top 5 Best Mice for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – 2023
Here are the mice that are sure to greatly reduce or relieve the symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome:
![J-Tech Digital Wired Ergonomic Vertical USB Mouse with Adjustable Sensitivity (600/1000/1600 DPI), Scroll Endurance, Removable Palm Rest & Thumb Buttons [V628]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Rr0XulZRL.jpg)
1. Logitech M570 Wireless Mouse
If you are someone who prefers a trackball on their mouse, then this is certainly the model for you. This is especially due to the placement of the trackball.
Now, while you may be used to a middle location, this thumb controlled trackball is actually there for a reason. It has been positioned as such to ensure that you move your arm as little as possible.
The only real issue with this trackball is that it can become stuck due to becoming grimy. Therefore, you will find yourself cleaning it out quite frequently.
The mouse also boasts a sculpted shape. This ensures that your hand is kept in the best possible position, reducing stress as well as wear and tear.
Of course, comfort isn’t the only defining feature of this mouse. It is incredibly efficient too.
For one thing, there are plenty of quick access controls such as the back/forward buttons and the smooth scroll wheel.
The programmable buttons give you more control and access to your computer.
Another advantage is the fact that this mouse relies on an advanced Logitech 2.4 GHz connectivity which means that data can be quickly transmitted without any delay.
It is also compatible with many different Windows and Mac operating systems as well.
Not to mention, you can actually operate the mouse from up to 30 feet away from most digital devices.
Last but certainly not least, the wireless mouse can work up to 18 months without requiring a battery change.
+Pros:
- Comfortable and ergonomic shape
- Great battery life
- Good connectivity
- Efficient controls
- Excellent compatibility
-Cons:
- Trackball has to be cleaned frequently
2. 7Lucky Ergonomic Mouse
The design of this optical vertical mouse isn’t just sleek, it is also ergonomic in nature. See, the mouse has been constructed to encourage a “handshake” position.
This is a more neutral position for your hand and arm, cutting down on the pressure placed on your wrist. It also reduces the chances of your hand cramping up with continuous use.
There are also several multi-function buttons that improve the usability of the mouse. This includes the fact that you can adjust the DPI settings as well as the presence of the back/forward buttons.
You will also find that this is an incredibly responsive mouse as well. You will not experience any lag time or data delay issues at all.
Now, this mouse is compatible with Windows and Linux operating systems. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for Mac systems and Apple products.
One of the other perks with this mouse, though, is that it is incredibly easy to set up. It relies on a plug and play USB receiver design.
This means that it takes you just moments to get things set up and you can then use your mouse.
Speaking of usage, this mouse works on a rechargeable, high-capacity battery. When the battery does run out, you can simply switch over to the USB cable until it is charged up again.
+Pros:
- Comfortable positioning
- Proficient controls
- Rechargeable battery
- Good connectivity
-Cons:
- Not compatible with Mac systems
3. J-Tech Digital Scroll Endurance Wireless Mouse
This is a wireless mouse that has been specifically structured to ward off carpal tunnel, hence the vertical design.
The mouse has been created to support your hand in an upright and neutral position. By doing so, it prevents your forearm from being twisted while in the traditional position.
As there is less stress on this part of the arm, there is a lower chance of any damage being done to your wrist, arm or hand.
The mouse also comes with a removable palm rest that you can keep or detach, depending on what is most comfortable to you.
There is a high-resolution optical sensor which ensures that the mouse performs superbly and that greatly reduces any lag time or issues.
The mouse utilizes a receiver to remain connected to the computer, allowing you to use it for up to 10 meters away.
The DPI button makes it simple for you to select between 600, 1000, and 1600 DPI levels so that you can customize your user experience even further.
In fact, the only buttons that aren’t expertly designed and placed on the mouse are the back and forward ones. These can actually be pressed rather easily, leading to some confused actions during your work.
+Pros:
- Proper ergonomic design
- Customizable
- Responsive
- Good connectivity
-Cons:
- Back/forward buttons can be pressed accidentally
4. Anker 2.4G Wireless Ergonomic Mouse
This isn’t a mouse that just looks sleek, it also has an ergonomic purpose. When you grasp it, your hand automatically takes on a natural and neutral position.
Therefore, you can be quite certain that your hand, wrist, and arm is resting in the best possible position for you, throughout the day.
Since there is no twisting, there is no real chance for you to develop any injuries let alone carpal tunnel.
While the design of the mouse is optimal for you, the sheer height of it can mean that you knock it over quite a few times, by accident.
Apart from this, though, there aren’t any real issues with the ergonomic mouse but lots of features to be celebrated instead.
For instance, this wireless mouse boasts excellent connectivity, ensuring that there is absolutely no lag time when using it at all.
Furthermore, the DPI button allows you to select the sensitivity levels between 800 and 1600, depending on what works for you best.
Also, though this mouse relies on batteries, it does come with an automatic power saving mode that allows you to preserve the batteries as much as possible.
Finally, this is a mouse that works with quite a few different operating systems so you should have no trouble finding a device to work with it.
+Pros:
- Great connectivity
- Excellent ergonomic design
- Highly compatible
- Power saving mode
-Cons:
- Easy to knock over
5. J-Tech Digital Wired Ergonomic Mouse
This mouse boasts an ergonomic design that works to keep your hand in a neutral or “handshake” position.
This way, the muscles and the bones are kept in a more natural position which greatly cuts down on any twisting or painful movements.
Thus, even when you use this mouse for extended periods of time, you can be quite certain that no damage is being done to your arm.
To add to this, the ergonomic mouse also comes with a removable palm rest. Depending on what works for you, you may find that this rest offers even more comfort.
The only real design flaw in this mouse is the fact that it can be a bit bulky so it may not be something that everyone would like to have on their desk.
It should also be noted that this is a wired mouse. Of course, this isn’t a disadvantage as it actually works to ensure that the responsiveness of the mouse is always at peak rate.
The mouse is equipped with an adjustable DPI button which allows you to adjust the sensitivity to what is most suitable for you.
Last but certainly not least, this mouse is highly compatible with most digital devices and operating systems.
+Pros:
- Great design
- Excellent performance
- Easily adjustable
- Highly compatible
-Cons:
- Bulky design
Things to Know When Buying a Mouse for Carpal Tunnel
In this section, you will learn all the important features and details you need to look out for when shopping for a mouse for carpal tunnel.
Different Type of Mice
When it comes to mice that can stave off carpal tunnel syndrome, you will find that there are three designs to select from. These are vertical mice, trackball mice, and modified traditional mice. Let’s take a closer look at these below:
- Vertical Mice: as far as ergonomics go, you will find that vertical mice are often the most useful options. As the name suggests, the design on these mice tends to be more vertical, allowing your hand to take on a more neutral position known as the “handshake” position. In doing so, the bones in your forearm are allowed to rest more naturally, cutting down on the risk of developing carpal tunnel.
- Trackball Mice: with these mice, the focus is on the large trackball. This is because it is incredibly sensitive, allowing you to make major movements without moving much at all. Also, this type of mice relies on your fingers rather than the muscles and bones in your hands and arms. As such, they don’t cause as many stress-related issues. That being said, these trackball mice aren’t nearly as ergonomic as vertical mice. There is also the fact that they can take quite a bit of getting used to as well.
- Modified Traditional Mice: finally, these mice are the closest to what you are used to working with. They have been slightly modified to make them a little easier on your wrists and arms. On the upside, it means that these mice have no learning curve at all and you can get used it to very easily. Unfortunately, since these aren’t very supportive they may not work too well in preventing or easing carpal tunnel.
The Main Features of a Mouse for Carpal Tunnel
Now, let’s take a look at the most important features of a mouse when it comes to preventing or easing carpal tunnel:
Wired or Wireless
One of the first features that will be highlighted is the option between wired and wireless mice. For the most part, this is a decision that depends entirely on what you prefer.
This is because there aren’t too many differences between the modern wired and wireless mice. Of course, it should be noted that wired mice tend to be more reliable as far as connectivity is concerned.
Still, thanks to the advancements made with receivers and Bluetooth, the lag isn’t too noticeable.
Some users feel that wired mice are rather limiting as they have to be plugged in at all time. Also, the need for a cable can make your desktop appear rather messy.
An unbeatable advantage, however, is that you don’t have to worry about charging the mouse or switching out its batteries when they are drained.
On the other hand, if you use a mouse that relies on either a receiver or Bluetooth, these are issues that you will need to contend with.
At the same time, you will have the freedom to control the pointer on your computer from several meters away.
Proper Hand Positioning
The issue with using traditional mice is that they force you to keep your hand in an unnatural position for hours on end.
This continued stress and discomfort is what eventually causes carpal tunnel. Therefore, it stands to reason that when selecting a mouse, you should look out for one that adopts a more natural position.
This has already been discussed as being the handshake position. As the name suggests, this is how your hand would be as you are about to grasp someone else’s for a handshake.
When your hand is in this position, none of the bones or tendons are twisted. Rather, they are kept straight and prevent discomfort.
Controls Placement
It isn’t enough for a mouse to be simply designed to prevent carpal tunnel. You should also be able to use it with minimal fuss.
This is where the control placement comes in. As you are aware, there are a number of different buttons for clicking and scrolling on the mouse.
For the mouse to be truly useful, all of these controls need to be optimally placed. This means that your fingers should be able to reach them without straining.
At the same time, you should be able to touch these controls by accident either.
Adjustability Features
The final piece of the puzzle is adjustability. After all, when it comes to mouse sensitivity, everyone has different preferences.
To really optimize your mouse use, look for a mouse with adjustable DPI levels.
This way, with a single click of the button, you will be able to change and set the sensitivity of your mouse.
Things to Look for When Buying a Mouse for Carpal Tunnel
Here are some quick tips that can make it even easier to select the right mouse for your condition:
- OS Compatibility: before buying any mouse, always check that it is compatible with the devices you own. This is especially important if you have an Apple device as the iOS doesn’t always accept all mice. Still, this is a check that you should carry out, regardless of the device that you own.
- Mouse-to-Hand Fit: when selecting a mouse, you should also check how the dimensions of the device relate to your own hand. For instance, if you have a smaller hand, then you should use a smaller mouse – for larger hands, opt for a larger design.
- Longevity: if you use your mouse regularly, make sure to get one that is made from high-quality materials and durable tech. This way, it will last much longer.
Conclusion
To summarize, when looking for a mouse for carpal tunnel, get one that boasts an ergonomic design and is suitable for your work ethic.
If you want to limit how much you move your shoulder or your arm muscles, then you should go with the Logitech mouse.
On the other hand, if you prefer a vertical mouse with the optimal handshake position, either the Anker or Lekvey mouse will do.
For ultimate adjustability, both the J-Tech mice will be more than suitable for you.
These are the top options and shopping suggestions you should know about. Now all that is left to do is to find one that is just right for you.