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Forearm Supports
Forearm supports support the forearms and keep the wrists in a
neutral position. The use of forearm supports, however, does not
just relieve pains in the forearms, it can actually result in the
relief/prevention of neck and shoulder muscle strain and tension,
as well as the relief/prevention of Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS).
When shopping for a forearm support, there are a few things that
you should consider:
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Clamp – Most forearm supports simply clamp to a work
surface. Make sure that the clamp is big enough to clamp to
your work surface. This is especially important to consider
if you have a thick desktop.
-
Adjustment – The more adjustable your forearm support
is, the better you can personalize it and ensure that it is
positioned where it will be most effective.
-
Try it on – If possible, try out a forearm support before
purchasing it – make sure that you are getting the best
possible one for you. You want one that allows your hand and
finger tendons to move with minimal resistance. You want a free
flow of activity in your hands, without having to lift your
arms. You want to have good movement, without ulnar deviation
(a displacement toward the ulna, tending toward the little finger).
-
Wrist parallel to arm – To prevent typing strains, you
want your wrist to be parallel to your arm. Back problems associated
with typing are often due to excess arm and shoulder weight
being placed on the spinal column, exerting excess tension on
the vertebras. A forearm support can prevent this strain –
just make sure that it properly keeps your wrist parallel to
your arm.
-
Training – For best results, use a forearm support in
conjunction with ergonomics training. Typing injuries can result
from improper posture and other factors, as well. Know how to
prevent typing injuries!
If you already have RSI or CTS, be sure to speak with a medical
specialist to find out which type of forearm support is best for
you (if any at all).
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