computer aids

[mindsquatter]

I use the logitech marble too and I love it! Far easier on the wrists which was my main problem as a standard mouse tended to aggrevate my carpal tunnel.
It does take some getting used to but I'm glad i perservered(sp?) I can really tell a difference between using my trackball over a weekend and using a standard mouse (or worse for me) a trackpad at work through the week - my pain and sensation are so much better first thing on a Monday than last thing on Friday

Michelle

[Retro]

hmmm...I've got an "old fashioned" two-button, scroll wheel with a rubber ball mouse on my PC which is driving me up the wall. Problem is, I keep looking at alternatives (because I do have to spend some time on it sorting out videos but a) can't decide on the best one and b) can't bring myself to spend money on something that's going to get relatively little use

For people who are looking at mice and alternatives it would be worth trying ergonomic ones, definately go for optical or laser and I personally want 5 buttons which may just be because I'm so used to the extra functions my trackpad has

I primarily use my laptop and love my trackpad to bits. I remember (very many) years ago using a company Toshiba laptop which had a "nipple" mouse which at the time I loved because it took virtually no movement to use it and it did take me a while to get used to a trackpad but now I love it, that might even be an option for the PC.

more options : keyboard with a built in trackball quite fancy this one myself actually, it has a lot of the shortcut buttons the laptop has and some useful extras, presentation mouse - you can wander around with the mouse in your hand.

These are just a few "mainstream" alternatives, also much lighter on the pocket than some alternatives

Lindsey

[Jill]

Most reviews of Evoluent vertical mouse say it is made for big hands, reviews of Microsoft Natural Wireless Laser Mouse 6000 tell the same. Is it so or you just need to get used to it?
My hands aren't too big, now I am using a small and light notebook mouse and want to switch to something more ergonomical and wrist-save. There're also cheaper mice that look similar to Evoluent, are they any good?
Wow Pen Joy Vertical Ergonomic Optical Mouse is smaller, but the angle is between Evoluent and normal mouse. So many products, I got stuck

[Stone]

I use an Evoluent mouse at work. I have quite small hands but don't find it a problem - the main habit to get out of is resting your wrist on the desk while mousing - very bad for the wrists! You can turn the sensitivity right up too which helps me. I would say they're pretty good, but don't neglect your regular breaks just because you're more comfortable.

Stone

[Jill]

Mod edit - unnecessary quote removed


With Evernote mouse a part of palm is 'resting' on the desk when the straight wrist stays in the air, right?

[Millie123]

I work as an adminstrator so I spend several hours a day at a computer, and was suffering with alot of pain im my hands, after an Access to Work assessment my employer has now purchased for me, a roller mouse station and ergonomic keyboard, and within a few weeks i could feel the difference. Instead of twisting my wrist to hold a standard mouse I now have the roller mouse in front of me and i just have to roll it to use it, its fantastic
I also have a new computer chair, its and RH300, the lumbar support is inflatable, so the chair fits the curve of my back perfectly, the arms are quite short so I can sit quite close to my desk without being stopped by the arms of the chair. It also has a free float setting which means that the chair moves with me, I admit this was a bit odd to start with, and did make me legs ache, but I've gotten use to it now.

[Jill]

Wireless Evoluent was too big and heavy for my hands, so I tried a cheaper Wowpen Joy. The right wrist got much better since I switched to it, no strain and no need to use braces every day. The only drawback - it's hard to get back to standard mouse while working not at home
I guess it is a good choice for small hands only and Evoluent will be better for bigger ones.

[fussymum]

Computer software for primary school maths

Hi,
Ive been searching for software that will allow my child(10) to do mathematics on keyboard/computer. They are very good with maths but poor ability to grip and use pencil for long periods inhibits them from working quickly and accurately. The teacher as commented that they do much better when tested using computer. Their result was higher than tested with pencil. Ive come up with lots of eductional links to aid maths but it is the recording and application that we are looking for. I would be very greatful for a point in the right direction.
Thanks fussymum

[shirleytx7]

I am looking at getting one of the Evoluent mouse. There is a regular and a small I have long skinny hands 7 3/4 inches from tip of finger to wrist crease which is too big for the small mouse according to the website. I have read some posts on here that the regular is somewhat too big/heavy etc. For those that have this mouse which one works well in relation to the size of your hand.

[Jill]

My hand is only 6 3/4 and regular wireless Evoluent was not my size (small was not available at Amazon when I ordered it)

[DeeNJai]

Computer software for primary school maths

Hi,
Ive been searching for software that will allow my child(10) to do mathematics on keyboard/computer. They are very good with maths but poor ability to grip and use pencil for long periods inhibits them from working quickly and accurately. The teacher as commented that they do much better when tested using computer. Their result was higher than tested with pencil. Ive come up with lots of eductional links to aid maths but it is the recording and application that we are looking for. I would be very greatful for a point in the right direction.
Thanks fussymum

Microsoft do a maths programme if you go on a student software site it is around 10pounds. it might help.
Dee

[fussymum]

Hi thanks for that,
will give it a go.
fussymum