Tuesday, October 29, 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.

These designs are usually made up of two different segments. One segment, referred to as the slipper, allows users to move the cursor. The other foot controls a pedal, usually with buttons allowing for clicking. Both feet are used together to accomplish all the activities required.

Many people today suffer from repetitive strain injury, particularly those whose professions involve long hours at the computer like editors and graphic designers. For them such a device provides a means of preventing this type of injury. For those who already have problems with their fingers, like carpel tunnel syndrome or shoulder and neck injuries, using their feet offers a workable solution. People with disabilities involving limited or no use of their hands may also be able to use this type of device.

Short cuts are frequently used in editing and designing. When all you have is two hands, your speed is limited to your two hands. Feet are left unused and it makes sense that using them can help a great deal when multitasking is required. A mouse that allows short cuts to be defined can be of great benefit in such a situation. Gamers too, appreciate having their hands free for battle.

Clicking is an easy activity to manage in this way as it does not require much precision. Cursor control, on the other hand, requires some precision and is not as easy a skill to accomplish. However, it is not that difficult and just as driving a car requires learning how to use the pedals, this skill can also be mastered with practice.

This type of device works independently and does not affect any other input devices. This means that it can be used together with hand device. Perhaps you feel that you do not want to move the cursor around with your foot but that being able to click would help. You can work in this way and relieve some stress off your hands.

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.

The benefits of using a foot controlled mouse are extensive, particularly for those who are suffering from repetitive strain injuries to their shoulders, necks, wrists and fingers. Contrary to the feeling that using such a device affects productivity, it can actually increase it in certain cases. It makes sense that being able to multitask can speed up production. The feet can be used very effectively in this manner by many people, including those who cannot use their hands.




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