Long-term use of a keyboard or mouse can cause wrist pain. Without support, you may feel uneasy and struggle with simple movements. Good thing, a wrist rest keeps your wrists neutral while you work. It relieves joint stress, improves comfort, and prevents injuries.
However, not all wrist rests are the same, and a bad or old one can cause more problems. This article from PostureUp will show you five clear signs that it’s time to get a new ergonomic wrist rest.
1. Your Wrist Rest Feels Too Hard or Too Soft
A good ergo wrist rest should be comfortable and supportive. However, hard surfaces can strain and hurt your wrist and too much softness may not support.
Indeed, a wrist rest’s firmness can change with age and use, decreasing its effectiveness. If you feel uncomfortable or unsupported, it is a good idea to get a new wrist rest that offers better balance.
2. Visible Wear and Tear
As you continue to use your wrist rest, the surface might wear out, making it less comfortable and effective. These changes can influence how well it helps your wrists and their cleanliness. If you see any of these problems, it could be time to replace it:
- Cracks and Tears: A tear may cause discomfort and expose the inner material.
- Flattening or Compression: The foam or gel inside may have lost its shape, which can make it uncomfortable to rest your wrists on.
- Peeling or Worn Surface: The top of the wrist rest might begin to come off over time.
- Discoloration: The wrist rest can become unsanitary because dirt and bacteria can build up.
3. Increased Wrist Pain
A used wrist rest can become misshaped, causing discomfort in your wrists. Ignoring these signs can cause wrist issues like tendonitis.
However, you can lessen wrist pain and pressure by switching to a more ergonomic wrist rest. Remember, good health over time relies on noticing how your body feels and taking fast steps to ease any pain.
4. Misalignment with Keyboard or Mouse
Your wrist rest should help keep your wrists neutral when you type or use a mouse. Misalignment can lead to repeated strain injuries (RSIs), which include:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: The median nerve may be compressed, causing wrist and hand tingling, numbness, and pain.
- Tendonitis: Tendonitis is common when the wrist is held awkwardly.
5. Difficulty Maintaining Good Posture
Uncomfortable wrist rests can misalign your body. A wrist rest that helps keep your wrist is important to prevent posture problems like these:
- Slouched Shoulders: This position can cause tightness in your upper back and neck.
- Forward Head Posture: Over time, this can cause neck pain and tightness.s.
- Rounded Back: This rounded posture can strain your spine and lower back.
- Bent Wrists: Wrist fatigue and hand and forearm strain can result.
How to Choose the Right Wrist Rest Upgrade
When picking a new wrist rest, it is important to consider the features that will provide the best support. Here are some tips to help you pick the best wrist rest:
1. Material Matters
Different materials have varying degrees of softness, support, and breathability, which can change how comfortable you feel when working. These materials include:
- Memory Foam: It offers excellent support and relieves pressure points, making it great for long work sessions.
- Gel: They are known for their cooling properties.
- Fabric Covering: These are soft, comfortable, and tend to be gentle on the skin.
- Leather or Faux Leather: They tend to be firm, offering solid support while being durable and easy to maintain.
2. Non-Slip Base
A wrist rest with a non-slip bottom keeps it in place on your desk. This stability keeps your wrist supported without needing to adjust it all the time.
Without a non-slip bottom, the wrist rest might move around, making you adjust your hands or wrists and causing strain.
3. Ergonomic Shape
The shape of the wrist rest helps keep your wrists in a comfortable position. Look for a wrist rest that is slightly sloped and matches your desk arrangement. Choose a wrist rest that gives you the support you need and feel comfortable in your workspace.
Make the Right Choice, Upgrade Your Wrist Rest Today
Good wrist rests help you sit, reduce wrist stress, and feel more comfortable. So, avoid waiting for discomfort to worsen. Take care of yourself and have a comfortable work experience!
