Vertical Split Keyboards

Vertical Split Keyboards Vertical-split keyboards are one of the new inventions in keyboards that assist the typist in either preventing Repetitive Strain Injuries or alleviating the current symptoms. The vertical split keyboard is designed so that your wrists and hands are typing in their natural state. If you stand in a normal position, your hands are positioned so that the palms face inward towards your body.

The designers of this keyboard have made it so that that keyboard is cut in two each side standing vertically with the keys facing outward. So when typing on this keyboard, your arms are resting in a natural curved position and your hands are typing in a “handshake” position. Your shoulders are at perfect rest. The numeric keypad and arrows are in a flat position like a regular keyboard between the two vertical stands.

The vertical-split keyboard is the only ergonomic keyboard recognized, in a university study, to substantially reduce the damaging wrist postures that are created by a flat keyboard. Because the wrists are typing in a normal position, this greatly reduces the strain put on the muscles and tendons by twisted wrists.

Another keyboard that also greatly helps to reduce repetitive injuries is another split keyboard that mounts to an office chair. When you are sitting in an office chair with your arms resting naturally on the arm rests, then your hands rest a little bit forward of the arm rests. This keyboard is mounted in front of the arms of the chair so that your hands are typing in a natural resting position.

This ergonomic keyboard is then brought much closer to you in a natural position, thereby reducing stress on the shoulders, backs and arms. The keyboards can be adjusted to the most comfortable position either moving them up and down, or side to side. This reduces the stress in the forearms and in the shoulders.

Another type of split keyboard is the flat keyboard which has been contoured and ergonomically designed to put fingers in a more natural and relaxing position. The keyboard is raised in the middle, the letters and numbers are on the upper corners of the board. This allows the forearms, shoulders and wrists to type in a natural position thus relieving stress.

One of the last split keyboards that will be mentioned here is the split ergonomic keyboard that can tent or widen for more comfort. This keyboard can adjust vertically or horizontally. This allows for more freedom of movement and more opportunities to change position. When the body is forced to remain in one position for too long, it naturally begins to feel more stress. When you can widen or narrow your arms, or put your hands at a more vertical slant, this will relieve pressure in your shoulders, back, and forearms. Thus, you are more relaxed and more able to prevent RSI.

This article has only touched upon the numerous options that are available for ergonomic keyboards. Research your options carefully as each person will feel more comfortable at different keyboards. Remember to try to change your positions often, to stretch, and to sit correctly. These tips, along with ergonomic office products, will help you to keep Repetitive Strain Injuries from affecting your life.