How do I reduce hand fatigue while typing?

Q

How do I reduce hand fatigue while typing?

Detailed Answer

Fatigue usually stems from excessive force or poor positioning. Solutions:

  • Use a light-touch keyboard (mechanical switches with low actuation force – Cherry MX Red or Brown, 45–50g).
  • Rest your palms (not wrists) on a gel pad only when pausing, not while typing.
  • Keep wrists straight – bent wrists compress nerves.
  • Do hand stretches: make fists, spread fingers, touch thumb to each fingertip, rotate wrists.
  • Take a 5-minute break every hour.
  • Try a split ergonomic keyboard (e.g., Microsoft Sculpt, Kinesis Freestyle) to reduce ulnar deviation.
  • Massage your forearms and use a stress ball.
  • Stay hydrated.

If fatigue persists, see a doctor – early repetitive strain injury is reversible. Ignoring it leads to chronic pain and inability to type.

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