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Mice are the most popular type of pointing devices used with computers, but they are not your only option. Similarly, the basic mouse that perhaps came with your computer is not your only option: there are multiple types of mice and other pointing devices available on today’s market. The question is: should you buy one?

The answer to this question is, of course, completely up to you. But before you do go out and buy a new mouse or alternative pointing device, first make sure that you are using your current one correctly. Using your mouse correctly can prevent typing injuries.

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Here are some tips:

· Fit – be certain that your mouse fits your hand; and if you are a left-handed person, you should use a lefty mouse.

· Close – keep your mouse close in to your body… not out to the side… not up high on your desk.

· Computer adjustments – not all of the possible mouse adjustments you can make are on the physical mouse. You can adjust the visibility of the pointer, the blink rate, and speed on your computer. You can adjust your mouse settings so that they suit the task at hand.

· Straight – your wrist, hand, and forearm should all be in a straight line.

· Wrist – pay particular attention to your wrist: it should not be bent up, down, left, or right. It should not be leaning on the edge of the desk.

· Relaxed – stay relaxed. Take a moment to fully relax your shoulder, forearm, and wrist.

· Loosen your grip – you need only a light grip on the mouse.

· Click lightly – similarly, you do not need to use a lot of pressure to click your mouse.

· Two fingers? – it can be beneficial to use two fingers to click instead of just one.

· Clean – if you clean your mouse and keep it in overall good shape, it is going to better-cooperate with you.

· Breaks – it is important to take breaks often. Some of these breaks should be stretching breaks. And no, they do not need to be terribly long breaks: simply take a few couple minute breaks here and there can help a lot.

Even if you follow these tips, you may find that you need an alternative pointing device. Here at Typing Injuries Frequently Asked Questions, we have many of the answers to your questions on alternative mice. Go ahead and browse through or section on mice.