Do you spend long hours working in front of your computer and experience wrist pain ? You may be suffering from mouse syndrome , a tendinopathy caused by the intensive use of a mouse and keyboard in a non-ergonomic position.
In this article, we explain what mouse syndrome is, its symptoms, causes, and consequences. We also provide tips for preventing pain.
What is mouse syndrome?
Mouse syndrome , also called "mouse pain" or "mouse arm" refers to a set of pains in the wrists and forearms .
It can manifest as simple pain, but can also develop into computer tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome. This depends on the environment and the frequency of work.
The immediate symptoms of mouse syndrome
Wrist pain
Wrist pain is the first sign of mouse syndrome.
This pain is due to prolonged hand positioning on the mouse and repetitive movements.
If this pain is not addressed quickly, it can worsen and lead to limited mobility and an increased risk of chronic diseases.
Numbness or tingling in the fingers
One of the notable effects of mouse syndrome is a sensation of numbness or tingling in the fingers .
This often results from prolonged pressure on the nerves in the wrist or forearm.
Shoulder or neck pain
Prolonged use of a computer mouse can also cause pain in the neck and shoulders .
Poor posture, combined with repetitive movements, is usually the main cause.
Muscle fatigue
Muscle fatigue is another common indicator of this syndrome, particularly in those who do not take breaks or who work without suitable ergonomic equipment.
It reduces your productivity and leads to gradual exhaustion.
The long-term consequences of mouse syndrome
The mouse arm
“Mouse arm” is a commonly used expression to refer to muscular disorders related solely to overuse of the mouse .
This problem often affects the entire dominant arm.
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Mouse syndrome can progress to carpal tunnel syndrome , a more serious condition where the nerves in the wrist are compressed.
Wrist tendonitis
Computer tendinitis , caused by tendon overload due to repetitive movements, is a direct consequence of excessive mouse use.
This particularly affects people who work more than 6 hours in front of their screen.
Decrease in productivity at work
Due to the pain and discomfort it causes, mouse syndrome can greatly reduce productivity .
The causes of mouse syndrome
Prolonged posture in front of the computer
A fixed and prolonged posture in front of a computer workstation is a major cause of mouse pain.
Adapting your workspace is crucial to minimizing the syndrome.
Intensive mouse use
Repeated clicks and constant movements without alternating with other peripherals amplify the risks of fatigue and musculoskeletal disorders.
Lack of pauses or micro-movements
Not taking regular breaks or not adopting micro-movements can increase tension in the muscles and joints.
Stress and nervous tension
Daily stress at work can exacerbate pain associated with mouse syndrome by increasing muscle tension and limiting relaxation reflexes.
How to avoid mouse syndrome?
Creating an ergonomic workstation
Setting up an ergonomic workstation helps prevent the risk of mouse syndrome.
It includes:
- an ergonomic office chair,
- a sit-stand desk,
- but above all an ergonomic keyboard and mouse .
Find our complete guide to ergonomic furniture and accessories .
Vary your gestures and use keyboard shortcuts
Reducing reliance on the mouse by using keyboard shortcuts can ease the strain on hand muscles.
Take regular breaks and move around
Active breaks involve moving during your break times, simply by going for a walk or doing stretching exercises outdoors or in your office.
Breaking with a sedentary lifestyle and stretching limit and prevent muscle and joint pain.
Practice targeted exercises and stretches
Simple exercises , such as wrist rotations or finger stretches, are very effective in relieving and preventing computer tendonitis .
In conclusion, mouse syndrome refers to wrist and forearm pain caused by prolonged use of a mouse and keyboard. You can prevent mouse syndrome with various tips such as ergonomic setup and accessories, active breaks, and targeted exercises.
FAQ: All about mouse syndrome
What are the symptoms of mouse arm syndrome?
Symptoms of mouse syndrome include wrist pain, muscle fatigue, and a feeling of numbness.
What's wrong with the mouse?
Mouse sickness refers to disorders resulting from prolonged and repeated use of a computer mouse.
How can I treat mouse syndrome?
You can treat mouse syndrome by setting up an ergonomic workstation, taking regular breaks, and practicing appropriate stretches.
Why does my wrist hurt when I write?
Wrist pain when typing is often due to excessive strain on the tendons or nerves, sometimes caused by computer tendonitis.
What are the signs of wrist tendonitis?
Signs of wrist tendonitis include wrist pain, increased tenderness, stiffness, and sometimes swelling or discomfort during movement.
