Article,
Variation in upper limb posture and movement during word processing with and without mouse use
Ergonomics, 37 (7): 1261--1267 (July 1994)http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6WVB-45CWD23-394/2/84cf7c0caa0fecd891fdda65396d45c0.
Abstract
Work postures and movements of the upper limb were
analysed for 12 'mouse' operators and 12 'non-mouse'
computer operators employed in word-processing work.
Measurements were carried out during correction of a
given text. 'Mouse' operators spent 64% of the working
time with the operative wrist deviating more than 15
degrees towards the ulnar side, while 'non-mouse'
operators spent 96% of the time with the corresponding
wrist in neutral position towards radial deviation. The
rotation in the shoulder was at all times in neutral
position towards inward rotation for 'non-mouse'
operators, while 'mouse' operators worked 81% of the
time with the shoulder rotated outward more than 30
degrees. 'Mouse' operators corrected a longer text
during the given time. Our observations showed long
periods of strenuous working postures for 'mouse'
operators compared to 'non-mouse' operators. We believe
that further investigations need to be carried out on
the effects of word-processing techniques and to
develop ergonomic work station designs for the 'mouse'
and other non-keyboard input devices. Journal Article;
In English; England; MEDLINE
