Tuesday 29 October 2013

The Benefits Of A Foot Controlled Mouse

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.

The design usually consists of two parts. One part is commonly called the slipper and is used to control the movement of the cursor. Another part called the pedal is used for clicking. When using both feet together, all the functions normally available with a hand-controlled device such as selecting from a menu, dragging and scrolling can be accomplished.

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.

People may question whether use of the feet is as efficient as using their hands. In fact, they can be just as efficient and in fact efficiency is actually increased in certain cases. Just make sure that you purchase a foot controlled mouse that is simple and effective to use, offering all the options you need.




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