Expert: Violet Argo RN - 3/27/2010

Question
Hello I was talking to this nurse and I said to her I wanted to know is that I work on the computer
everyday for many hours and im useing my mouse and I move the mouse with my right hand and my right hand is on the mouse and my right hand near the wrist of my hand is on the desktop like a desk and my right wrist hand is red and it bothers me here and there when I have my right wrist hand on the desk on the computer for a long time. What I wanna know is is that normal for my right wrist hand to be red when I have it on the desk for a long time? Or even for a short time? I also heard that when your wrist near your hand is red from useing the computer mouse for hours changes your Blood Pressure is that true. Is that something to worry about? And she said I have never heard of computer mouse use affecting your blood pressure so I don't think that I would worry about that.

It is normal for your hand to get red and sore if you are constantly on the computer and using the mouse- therefore rubbing your hand on the desktop.  You might want to invest in one of those ergonomically correct mouse pads if you are doing so much computer work- it should help alleviate the pain in your hand and can also help prevent any carpal tunnel syndrome.  Hope this helps.

So then I said So I look up what carpal tunnel syndrome. And on this website called www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/carpal_tunnel/detail_carpal_tunnel.htm and it says Carpal tunnel syndrome
occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. So basically my right hand wrist is being pressed on on the desktop when im useing my mouse. Does that mean im in danger of getting carpal tunnel syndrome? You said to get a ergonomically correct mouse pads. Where do they sell those at? I wan a big one because I move the mouse alot. Then she said Yes, people who do a lot of work on computers, either typing or using a mouse, are at risk for getting carpal tunnel.  I believe that they sell the mouse pads at most office supply stores/ computer stores.  You could also try google  and see what comes up.

Then I said So how can I reduce my chances of getting carpal tunnel while still working on the computer for many hours? Also whats my chances of getting carpal tunnel?

She said You should take frequent brakes, stretch your hands, arms and shoulders.  Position your keyboard and mouse so that they are at elbow height- This helps prevent flexion in your hands/wrist.  Sit up straight in your chair while you work and break up tasks on the computer with other things you have to do during the day.
Then I said You said to take frequent brakes but how long should the frequent brakes be? Should be a 15 or 30 min break every hour or 2 hours? What's your suggestion? She did not answer that question yet. My question to you is since I use the computer for many hours and my right hand is on the mouse and my right hand near the wrist of my hand is on the desktop like a desk whats my chances of getting carpal tunnel syndrome? Should I worry about it or no?

Answer
This is a very long question, but I will try to answer it. I have never heard that using a computer in any way can alter your blood pressure. It is very possible that extended use of a mouse can cause damage to the nerves in the wrist. Getting an ergonomic mouse pad is a good idea but not the fix for this pain and redness, you MUST go see your doctor to avoid risk of permanent injury. Your doctor will instruct you on positioning for your hands, frequency and length of breaks and so on. My advice would be to go to the doctor as soon as possible. I hope this answer your question.