Mouse Use Hurts My Arm
Pain from mouse use can occur in the wrist, elbow, or shoulder. The treatment approach differs depending on where it hurts. Even ergonomic mice have limitations—improving your work environment and posture is more important.
Analyze Pain Location
① Wrist Pain
Likely cause: Carpal tunnel syndrome, wrist tendinitis
Characteristics: Numbness in thumb/index/middle fingers, worse at night
Key point: Wrist angle when using mouse
② Elbow Pain
Likely cause: Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
Characteristics: Pain on outer elbow, weak grip when holding mouse
Key point: Forearm muscle overuse
③ Shoulder Pain
Likely cause: Shoulder muscle tension, nerve compression
Characteristics: Shoulder lifts when using mouse, neck stiffness
Key point: Mouse position too far away
Workstation Improvements
- Mouse position: Place close to keyboard, don’t reach for it
- Elbow position: Keep elbow at 90° angle, forearm supported
- Wrist position: Keep wrist straight, not bent
- Shoulder position: Relax shoulders, don’t lift them
Ergonomic Mouse Limitations
Ergonomic mice are not a cure-all
Vertical mice or trackballs can reduce wrist strain, but if you already have tendon inflammation or nerve damage, just changing the mouse won’t fix it. Workstation setup, regular stretching, and proper treatment are more important.
Prevention Habits
- Use keyboard shortcuts to reduce mouse use
- Stretch wrist and forearm every hour
- Don’t grip mouse too tightly
- Adjust chair height so shoulders stay relaxed
Circulation Treatment for Mouse-Related Pain
- Circulation HD: Treat tendon inflammation, release nerve compression
- Circulation PT: Correct work posture, strengthen forearm muscles