3 Reasons to Switch to an Ergonomic Computer Keyboard

Hand cramps, finger, wrist, or even shoulder pain while typing can be attributed to poor posture at the keyboard, and the traditional keyboard may be the culprit.

What can you and your employees do to improve the situation?

The average American worker will likely spend much of their time typing on a traditional keyboard. Every workplace (or home office workplace) should consider investing in an ergonomic computer keyboard instead. In this article, we’ll explore the top three benefits of using an ergonomic keyboard from the ergonomics experts at Solutions Northwest Inc.

1. An ergonomic keyboard is easy to use.

Why use an ergonomic computer keyboard in your workplace or home office? For starters, they are easy to use even for non-techies. Installation is easy as most employ plug-and-go technology. Plug in the USB cable, and you’re all set.

Introduced to the market about thirty years ago, ergonomic keyboards are well-designed and built to last. The sleek, modern designs mean they’re not cumbersome and can be easily portable to wherever you decide to work.

The keys are designed to be responsive to even a light touch, requiring less motion and effort from your fingers. These ergonomic keyboards usually produce less noise than their traditional counterparts as well.

Related article: Ergonomic Mouse and Keyboard Review: Goldtouch Go!2 Mobile Keyboard and FlexMouse

2. Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is an often-painful medical condition caused by repetitive motions that put stress on the wrist. The median nerve passes through the carpal tunnel in your wrist. When there is too much pressure on the nerve, the result is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include hand numbness and tingling in the hand, wrist, and forearm. It’s possible for the pain to continue up the arm into the shoulder. Left untreated, surgery could be required to resolve it.

An ergonomic computer keyboard positions your hands, wrists, and forearms naturally. This positioning reduces strain and pressure on the median nerve, resulting in a decreased risk of developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

3. Boost Productivity

Everyone wants to figure out how to boost productivity, to accomplish more in less time. Whether you and your employees work in a corporate office or a home office or the corner coffee shop, getting your work accomplished in a timely manner is important.

The solution may be a simple change that you haven’t considered before. It’s possible that an ergonomic keyboard can increase productivity by increasing typing speed with better hand positioning and responsive keys that require less effort.

Better hand positioning results in more comfort and less pain and fatigue. By decreasing fatigue, we can increase employee work time and physical endurance. When workers are able to remain at the keyboard comfortably for longer amounts of time, more work is accomplished. Productivity is boosted.

Experience an Ergonomic Computer Keyboard for Yourself

If you’re still asking yourself, “Should I get an ergonomic keyboard?” The simple answer is yes! “Are ergonomic keyboards worth it?” Again, yes.

If your office spends any amount of time typing at a traditional keyboard, and especially if employees experience any symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, do your office a favor and invest in an ergonomic computer keyboard.

If you would like some more ergonomics suggestions for yourself or your employees,  contact the office ergonomics experts at Solutions Northwest Inc., which has recently began offering affordable Virtual Ergonomics Assessments specifically for remote workers nationwide (all you need is access to e-mail or a smart phone).

At SolutionsNW.com we value the importance of a positive workplace culture. Part of a positive workplace is a safe workplace, Contact Us to schedule an ergonomics consultation or ergonomics assessment for your office today.

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Virtual Ergonomics Assessment available nationwide!

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