Monday 28 October 2013

A Foot Controlled Mouse Offers Benefits

By Kelly Wood


A foot controlled mouse offers an option for computer users that is becoming more popular as repetitive strain injuries become more and more common. There are various different models available today and designs are improving as their popularity grows. Users are now able to move the cursor, click with their feet and perform all the activities normally achieved with a hand device.

Most of the designs are made up of two parts. There is a segment usually referred to as a slipper that moves a pointer to control the cursor just like a hand device. Another segment called a pedal allows for clicking and use of short cuts. Using the left and right feet together enables the user to accomplish all the necessary activities.

People with mouse-related injuries, like carpel tunnel syndrome, find great relief from pain in using such devices. They are also used by those who want to prevent developing injuries in the first place. The continual repetitive action required, particularly by those who spend long hours at a computer, can cause many muscular skeletal problems. Of course those with limited or no use of their hands, may find that using such devices offers them a way of using a computer that would otherwise be unavailable to them.

Far from hindering efficiency, such a device can actually boost it. Think about the time wasted in moving one hand continually away from the keyboard to the mouse. Editors can keep both hands on the keyboard and edit using their feet very effectively. Graphic designers too, can increase their production and multitask in this manner, especially when short cuts they use frequently can be programmed in.

Clicking obviously does not require any precision so this activity is easily managed. Controlling a cursor is more difficult as precision is needed. However, this skill is not difficult to learn. All it requires is some practice.

You may decide that moving the cursor around with your foot is not for you. Even if this is the case, using it simply for clicking can take much stress off the hands. The foot device can work independently without affecting the hand device or any other input devices connected to the same computer.

Having a comfortable chair adjusted to the correct height is important. Feet must be able to reach the pedals comfortably to control them. One is less likely to develop ankle strain than wrist strain but it is still important to take breaks. It is also important that you choose a device with a slipper that is comfortable and moves easily.

Although people may think that using their feet instead of their hands is less efficient, this does not have to be true. As long as the best possible foot controlled mouse is purchased, efficiency is actually boosted. Many people learn to work very efficiently with their feet.




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