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.

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.

However, it is not just for relieving strain and preventing injuries that such a device is used. It is also used to increase efficiency. Time can be saved by being able to keep both hands on the keyboard. Multitasking is made possible too. Graphic designers, for example, can speed up their production by using their feet as well as their hands, especially when frequently used shortcuts are programmed. Editors can edit text without having to remove their hands from the keyboard.

It is easy to click with a foot as not much precision is needed. Moving the cursor is not as easy. However, if you think about about how you learned to operate the pedals of a car and how automatic this action became to you, you realize that this skill becomes easy with practice.

Using such a device does not affect any of the other input devices used. This means that you can choose to use devices simultaneously. You have to find out which combination works best for you, offering you the most efficiency while saving you from excessive strain at the same time. For example, computer gamers like the fact that they can click and have their hands free at the same time.

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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