The traditional computer mouse was not designed with hand and wrist health in mind. It's functional, yet clunky, and can be quite painful to use for sufferers of arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Fortunately, it's possible to find a good arthritis friendly computer mouse online — AND, at a decent price.
First let me get a little scientific and tell you why the traditional mouse is “bad” for you. That way, you'll be better prepared to choose the best mouse alternative for your situation.
(Often, the best mouse for arthritic hands will also be the best mouse for carpal tunnel syndrome.)
Then, I'll present and review 3 solid alternatives for a pain-free experience.
Problems with the Traditional Mouse
For one, using a mouse requires you to keep your wrist and forearm “pronated” (palm-down). The muscles used to maintain this pronated position can add extra stress to the muscles used for the finger and hand movements you use to control the mouse.
This twisted position of the forearm bones can irritate joint inflammation at the wrist and elbow while moving the mouse around.
Other joints are also irritated by mouse movements. The grip of the mouse, and the clicking and scrolling movements will hurt the knuckles. Keeping your arm in a raised position will hurt your shoulder.
A truly “arthritis-friendly computer mouse” will address one or more of these problems by keeping your forearm in a more “neutral” position, removing or reducing your “grip” on the mouse, offer different clicking options, and/or reducing movement at the wrist and elbow.
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3 Arthritis Friendly Mouse Options
Ok, enough of the science. Here's what you want: three highly-recommended pain-free alternatives to the traditional mouse. I'll tell you why they're good, who they're for, and where they won't help you.
3M Ergonomic Mouse
Price: $
99.99Retail ($50~$60 online)
Pros: Comfortable, neutral hand position; Thumb buttons take the pressure off of fingers.
Cons: Same effect as standard mouse on elbows and shoulders.
An ergonomic mouse (sometimes called a “vertical mouse”) attempts to be more comfortable by reducing wrist pronation.
This one gets a lot of attention on the Internet, and is reported to have received the Arthritis Foundation's “Ease-of-Use” commendation.
The 3M Ergonomic Mouse looks like an old-school joystick, except it doesn't wobble around in it's base. The slight angle keeps your hand in the neutral, or “handshake” position, which feels natural and comfortable.
The buttons you would use to click and right-click are at the thumb-position instead of your index and middle fingers. Personally, I find this awkward. However, with practice, you can get used to it relatively quickly. And, if you have a lot of pain in your finger knuckles, this could provide a huge relief.
You move the base around the tabletop or mousepad — just like a traditional mouse — so it works the way you'd expect it to. On the down-side, you have to lift and move it to make up for a small table space (just like a regular mouse), so it doesn't do much for you if you're looking to ease pain in your elbows and shoulders.
UPDATE: The 3M Ergonomic Mouse also comes in a smaller size, for smaller hands. There are also wireless versions of both sizes.
Summary:
This is a very comfortable design, deserving of the Arthritis Foundation's commendation. It gives you the same functionality and control of a traditional mouse, while taking the stress off of your wrists and fingers. If standard mouse use affects your elbow and shoulder, this might not be for you. Yes, it's a little pricey, but the online discounts, and reduction in pain makes it worth the investment.
Apple Magic Trackpad
Price: $
69Retail ($53~$63 online; ~$40 used)
Pros: Keeps arm and wrist in one position; large surface area for all sized hands; convenient swipe gestures and “buttonless” design.
Cons: Limited functionality on Windows PCs; requires batteries; Not good for people with reduced finger control.
The trackpad takes a different approach to comfort. Instead of reducing wrist pronation, it assures that your hand remains in a comfortable position at rest, with no need to move your elbow or shoulder.
Apple's Magic Trackpad is a stylish-looking, standalone device that sits on your table, and connects wirelessly to your computer.* It works just like the trackpads built into most laptop computers: you run your finger over it to move the arrow on your screen.
*(You have to have a Mac with Bluetooth to connect. Those of you running Windows on a PC can connect, but lose much of the “magical” functionality.)
At first glance you might ask, “Where are the buttons?” (I did). Apple's innovative design turns the entire trackpad into a button. You can press anywhere on the trackpad for a “click”. This conveniently reduces finger movement by placing the buttons wherever your finger happens to be — one finger to click, two fingers to right-click.
It also reduces finger stress by adding multi-touch swiping control — very much like you'll find on the iPhone or iPad.
Slide two fingers simultaneously to scroll through a page. Add a third finger to go back and forth between web pages in your browser. “Pinch” with four fingers to bring up all your apps.
It might sound complicated, but after some practice it becomes intuitive. And, it reduces a lot of the “mousing around” your screen to click on special buttons and commands.
Its large surface area should make it comfortable for all sized hands. I found it responsive and comfortable.
Summary:
It's very intuitive and easy to learn, especially if you use a laptop, or a touch smartphone or tablet like an iPhone or iPad. It removes the need to constantly lift and move your arm around, so your shoulder and elbow get a break. If you have limited mobility in your fingers, this may not be for you.
Logitech M570 Wireless Trackball
Price: $
59.99Retail ($30~$40 online)
Pros: Comfortable, neutral hand position; keeps arm and wrist at rest in one position; standard mouse positions for buttons.
Cons: Thumb control might take time to get used to; requires batteries.
This trackball takes a two-prong approach.
Like the trackpad, a trackball is a stationary device that sits on your desk (or, even on your lap). You won't have to move your shoulder or elbow.
The Logitech M570 Wireless Trackball has the added benefit of conforming to the general shape of your open and relaxed hand, keeping it in a “partially-pronated” position to take the strain off your wrist.
Rather than move your finger around on a surface, however, you control the arrow on your screen by rolling a little ball.
The actual ball of this trackball, however, requires you to use your thumb to move the ball that controls the arrow on your screen.
I have to be honest. Personally, I found this to be extremely awkward and difficult to get used to. Almost annoying, even.
The advantage to this, however, is that traditional mouse users will find the buttons and a scroll-wheel in their usual places — at the index and middle fingers.
As an additional convenience, Logitech adds “quick navigation buttons” to move back and forth between webpages and documents (like the “swipe” feature in the Magic Trackpad), and buttons you can program to do common tasks with a single click.
Summary:
While I personally did not like the thumb control, I cannot deny the comfort of this device. Thousands of positive reviews online speak to its superior convenient design. It keeps your arm and shoulder in a rested position, and it can be placed on a table or in your lap for convenience.
Update: A Fourth Option
A number of readers wrote in to complain that the options above require extra work from their thumbs — not a good option for those of you with thumb-joint pain. I was remiss, and apologize for not noticing this sooner.
So, I did some research, and now present to you this fourth option:
Evoluent VerticalMouse 4
Price: $
99.99Retail ($80~$90 online)
Pros: Comfortable, neutral hand position; Programmable buttons allow you to use your most capable fingers.
Cons: Same effect as standard mouse on elbows and shoulders.
Like the ergonomic mouse, above, this vertical mouse attempts to be more comfortable by keeping your hand in the neutral “handshake” position, reducing wrist pronation.
The Evoluent VerticalMouse 4, however, adds some additional design features that contribute to comfort and convenience.
First, unlike 3M's “joystick” design, which requires a closed grip on the mouse, Evoluent uses an open-handed contour. This allows for a more relaxed grip, and access to buttons without contorting your fingers.
Second, a total of 5 programmable buttons allow you to decide which of your fingers will be doing the clicking. Two buttons rest at the thumb, and one at each of your first three fingers. Your pinky rests on a little lip that prevents it from rubbing against your tabletop.
A scroll-wheel sits in the traditional position between the index and middle fingers.
This programmability feature is a major benefit for people who have limited control of the predominant fingers. You can set it up so that your middle-finger is a traditional click, and your ring finger is a right-click, or vice versa.
One other convenient feature is the ability to adjust the tracking speed (how fast the pointer moves on the screen) directly from the mouse. No need to dig into your system settings to adapt to your work.
As with the ergonomic mouse, you move the base around the tabletop or mousepad like a traditional mouse — so it won't ease pain in your elbows and shoulders.
Summary:
This comfortable design, combined with the flexibility to decide which fingers you wish to use, may be a good solution for those with pain in the thumb base joint or dominant fingers. It comes in wireless versions, and a size for smaller hands. Evoluent also makes a left-handed model.
Conclusion
These are only three (now 4!) arthritis friendly computer mouse alternatives. There are hundreds more available, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. But, any of them can go a long way towards providing a more comfortable computing experience.
I hope I've given you a head start and pointers in how to find the best option for you.
For more options, I recommend going to Amazon.com, and searching for “ergonomic mouse“.
If you have an experience with one of the above products that you'd like to share, or want to suggest another mouse option for review, please tell us about it in the comments below. I'd love to read your feedback!
Lawrence
Hey Scott. I’ve been interested in theses products for quite a while now. I’ve bookmarked your site as well. I like the colour you’ve used at the top for the menu bar
Ryan Ibara
Wow I didnt know my mouse could cause that much trouble. I don’t have arthritis yet, but I DO use the computer a ton… I should definitely invest in one of these.
Fion
Hi Scott, thanks for sharing such an informative post! I don’t have arthritis but I find the traditional mouse can take a strain on my wrist and forearm after long hours of use. After reading this, I’ve learned that there are other alternatives and your review will be helpful in pointing others to getting their arthritis-friendly computer mouse!
TThorn
For over 10 years I’ve used a 2″ trackball mouse with programmable click options as a solution for mousing with arthritic fingers. I’m now searching for new options, as my discomfort is increasing even with the flexibility of the trackball. I’m surprised at the design of both the 3M and Logitech options – if one has finger joint arthritis, the thumb base joint is potentially susceptible as well. It would be impossible for me to painlessly manipulate the Logitech ball or 3M device with my thumb. My ‘fat’ trackball has been a good option because one can use several fingers at once for pointing, and program click options for the least painful finger action.
Scott @ Click
Thank you for your input. I had intended to just make an introduction to a few options, but I was definitely remiss in considering the thumb joints.
I’ve added a fourth option above. I hope that Evoluent’s programmable option might provide some relief for your thumb.
Oh, and thank you for mentioning your “fat trackball“! Definitely a good option to control with a palm or multiple fingers.
People can search for trackballs on Amazon.com here: http://amzn.to/1v1rcjp
Tess
Thank you for the great information. Are there any available for left handed individuals?
Scott @ Click
Hey, Tess.
You know, I have been looking for left-handed versions of the 3M Ergonomic Mouse, and have yet to find one!
However, as I mentioned above, Evoluent also makes a left-handed model: http://amzn.to/1v1kn1d
It’s a different shape than the 3M, but it might be worth a try!
Sharon S.
The Logitech one mentioned above might be a good option for left hand. The control is in the middle (which takes getting used to), but, if you’re okay with the control/roller being in the middle, and switch the primary button from left to right, that might work.
Sandra
Hi. My big problem is arthritis in my lower thumb joints together with backs of hands and into arm and NOT my fingers. Any help please?
Scott @ Click
Hello, Sandra.
I’m sorry it’s taken so long to get back to you. I’d lost access to my site for a while.
Have you found a solution since adding your comment? From what you describe, it sounds like you have no issues moving your fingers, but need to keep your wrist and arm stable.
I would recommend considering Apple’s Magic Trackpad, which allows you to do all the work with just your fingers in a small space.
You might also consider using a trackball, as TThorn mentions in the comment above.
Trackballs, like the trackpad, allow you to use just your fingers to move the mouse around the screen, and you can program the buttons for the most convenient configuration.
(Click here for trackballs on Amazon.)
I hope this is helpful. Please stop back and let us know how it works out for you!
~ Scott
Laurie Swenson
I have a vertical mouse that has been helpful with finger pain. I ordered two from Amazon, and the cheaper one was OK but not as good as the other. The best one ($20 now) is at https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TJ4ZD28/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1 and the other ($13 now) at https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CEO4SH6/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1 … I love the mouse you display here and I had seen it on Amazon before, but I didn’t want to risk that much money for a mouse I could not try out. But now that I’ve liked a vertical mouse I may at some point decide to shell out the money for a better one, because mouse use is one of the worst things I’ve done to my hand, wrist, forearm and shoulder. Now that I also have arthritis in my hands, it’s doubly important for me to take care of my hands, as this is my livelihood as a writer and I’ll be doing it with or without pain.
Scott @ Click
Hi, Laurie.
I appreciate you checking in!
I’m so glad you were able to find something affordable that works for you. When I first posted this article years ago, there weren’t many of these kinds of mouse available.
But, as more and more people are buying them, cheaper options are becoming more available. Thank you for sharing this with everyone!
~ Scott
Beth
Scott,
Thanks for a great article tied to Arthritis! My hand therapist said not to use a thumb mouse.
Below are some mice I would like for you to review for arthritis:
Hand Shoe Mouse by Hippus Light Click
The HandShoe mouse is from The Netherlands, so that may be why it is not rated by many.
Logitech Wireless Performance Mouse MX
This one feels great in the store! In our smaller city, I was not able to find the other ones.
Anker® CE100 Ergonomic Optical USB Wired Vertical Mouse
—
And for a bigger question, how is the touchpad on a laptop for arthritis? Or one we can buy such as the Logitech? I have a PC.
Thanks so much!
Beth
matt lucas
Thanks. I’ve had hand arthritis for years. Is there anywhere I can try this stuff out before I select the best one for me ? Cheers. Matt
Scott @ Click
Hey, Matt.
I see you are in the UK, and I am unfamiliar with the stores there.
However, if you know of any stores in your area that sell computer accessories, you can probably drop in and ask to try trackballs or a “vertical mouse” if they don’t have the exact models I list above. If there is an Apple Store near you, you can at least try out their trackpad.
Mainly, find a retailer that prides themselves on customer service, tell them about your arthritis, and see if they will accommodate. Let us know if you find a good place so we can let others know!
~ Scott
Paulo
My traditional mouse is causing me a lot of pain in my
wrist and I guess the best option is a touchpad or a pen mouse
(it offers a natural hand position).
I bought both in the internet. Didn’t receive yet, but I believe will solve my problem.
Scott @ Click
Hello, Paulo.
I sure hope so, too. If your pain is in your wrist, then any mouse that reduces wrist motion should help. If writing with a pen causes you discomfort, then I’m not sure that a pen mouse will work. The trick is to keep the wrist stable, and either move only your fingers, or move your whole forearm and hand as a unit.
Good luck!
~ Scott
Deb
Dear Scott,Thank you very much for your suggestions and reviews. I have both bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis in my fingers. I am using a MacPro,and am finding clicking on the trackpad to be painful. In fact, I’m developing swelling on my “clicking finger”. so I believe I may be causing my arthritis to worsen by clicking on the trackpad. I am wondering if your recommendations have changed since you wrote this piece.Also,I am trying to figure out how I would use a separate trackball, or ergonomic mouse while using a MacPro.I would greatly appreciate any suggestions you might have for me. Thank you.
Scott @ Click
Hello, Deb.
Thanks for checking out the page. It sounds to me that, if your arthritis pain is in your fingers, then the Trackpad is not the best option. That would be better if your pain was in your elbow or forearm.
You’ll probably need an option that takes the work away from your fingers, and might be better off with an ergonomic mouse that takes the work off the fingers, and transfers it to the wrist/arm. It also transfers the job of “clicking” to the thumb.
As far as connecting these other options to your Mac Pro, you can plug them in via a USB cable. If you want to avoid cables, go for one of the Bluetooth options.
Please let me know which one you go with, and how it works out for you. Remember that most dealers will let you exchange the mouse if you choose one that doesn’t work for you.
Wishing you luck!
~ Scott
matt
I was really looking for it and here I go. Thank you very much for sharing your valuable experience, I must say you have provided handy information.
Scott @ Click
I’m glad if the information proves helpful. And thanks for the pun! 🙂
Susan
Hi,
I find using a standard mouse resting on my lap the most comfortable option. It still works well.
Jasper Groff
Change from a “Click” to a “Tap” on a Mac trackpad:
Go to System Preferences>Trackpad>under heading”Point to Click on the 1st page>enable “Tap” to Click.
This will allow you to very gently Tap the trackpad instead of pushing downward hard to Click. It’s really gentle on the finger joints and can be used by any finger that is comfortable.
Scott @ Click
Thanks for sharing that tip! 🙂
Lenda Larson
I have arthritis and the mouse repetitive actions have injured my right hand greatly after many years in IT. Love your information and have purchased the Evolvuet. so pleased they have a small hand version. Hoping it will help me out. Thanks!
Scott @ Click
Thanks for checking out the site! I’m glad you found the information helpful, and I truly hope the Evolvuet mouse takes some of your discomfort away. 🙂
Mark3
Hi, do you allow guest posting on http://www.3goodones.com ? 🙂 Let me know on my e-mail
Scott @ Click
I haven’t considered it before, but I might. Email me your proposal. Email is on my About Page.
Patrick
Hey Scott was wondering if you checked out the Penguin vertical mouse similar to the 3m but more like a mouse with a scroll wheel?
Scott @ Click
Hi, Patrick.
Personally, I LOVE the Penguin mouse! The ambidextrous makes it easier for right- or left-handed people to choose. Just flip the switch!
And, it comes in three different sizes to fit small to large hands.
The scroll wheel is definitely a nice added touch, but, it might not help people with arthritis pain in their fingers. Anyone interested should peek at it here and see if it’s good for you:
Thanks for sharing!
~ Scott
Julie Ann
I am just finding out about these options for a different mouse and keyboard. I hope to find some options that better suit my needs. I have thumb and grip issues. What a great page!!
Scott @ Click
Hi, Julie.
I’m so glad you found it helpful! Please come back and share what you use if you find something that works well for you! 🙂
~ Scott
steve cohen
I stumbled upon this article looking for mouse for my wife who was just diagnosed with osteoarthritis. Thanks for the helpful info. I am going to have her try the Evoluent which appears best for her problems. I did want to provide you with some feedback on the Logitec M570. I have been using one for over 5 years. Trust me; it feels awkward to steer the cursor with your thumb at first but you quickly adjust.and will find the motions required to operate it much faster, easier and smoother than a conventional mouse. I still use a conventional mouse when i travel with a laptop and find it decidedly clunky and slower. So if anyone decides the Logitec may be their best solution, don’t be scared off by the cursor control design.
Scott @ Click
Thanks, Steve.
I hope that your comments help others to make a decision on which is best for them!
~ Scott
Linda
I disagree that Apple Magic TrackPad is arthritis-friendly. I’ve used one for years and over time it has actually caused arthritis in my right hand and fingers. For relief, I’ve had to switch to a traditional trackpad. Any repetitive motion will ultimately injure the part of the body that is getting constantly pounded, no matter what instrument is used. The best solution I’ve found is to switch tools & switch hands often and don’t use any one device for too long. Right now, my poor hands and fingers are aching and my right index finger is crooked and inflamed. It was the Apple Magic Trackpad that caused this.
Scott @ Click
Hi, Linda.
Thanks for your comment. When researching for this article some years ago, people reported a positive experience. I appreciate you sharing your experience, and I hope it helps readers make a better decision about which option would work best for them.
~ Scott