Awrist rest (a.k.a. palm rest, wrist support, or palm support)[1] is a device used to support the wrists while using a computer keyboardormouse.[2] Wrist rests have common usage in the workplace.[3]
Wrist rests can be made from memory foam, gel, leather, or hardwood, the most common being memory foam rests.[4] Memory foam rests retain impressions for longer, while gel rests quickly return to their original shape.[4] Gel rests provide more cooling.[4] Some computer keyboards come with a wrist rest included.[5]
Beyond the typical wrist rest designs, some companies have created variations that add extra functionality or aesthetics. For example, a laptop with a foldable wrist rest,[6]agame pad with a stylized Pokémon wrist rest,[7] or a wrist rest that also functions as a mouse.[8]
Ergonomic use
[edit]The wrist can be strained by the increased angle when typing without a rest.
There are mixed opinions on whether wrist rests for computer keyboards are a benefit to ergonomics.[2]
The main benefit of using a wrist rest is increased comfort, especially for those using keyboards over long periods.[1][4] Usage of a wrist rest can alleviate tension can take away pressure from the neck, shoulders and arms.[2] Using a keyboard without a wrist rest may increase the bending angle of the wrists, causing strain and tendon irritation.[1]
Prolonged contact between the wrists and the rest may cause carpal tunnel syndromeortenosynovitis.[2] Resting the wrists on a rest while typing may prevent motion of the wrist, causing issues.[1]
To mitigate potential problems, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends the hands to be elevated above the rest while typing.[1] While not typing, the rest should contact the hand's palm/heel, not the wrist.[1] As well, they recommend for the wrist rest's slope and height to match the front of the keyboard, and for the rest to be soft, with a depth of at least 3.8 centimetres (1.5 in).[1]
A 2004 study published in Elsevier described the literature on the efficacy of wrist rests as "limited, inconclusive, and contradictory".[3] Some studies have concluded that wrist rests reduce strain while others have concluded rests cause more strain.[3] A 2018 study looked at a sample size of 25 during prolonged typing.[9] They found wrist rests to reduce fatigue in the biceps brachii muscle but have no effect on the upper trapezius muscle.[9]
