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Wrist and forearm posture from typing on split and vertically inclined computer keyboards
R W Marklin1, G G Simoneau, J F Monroe
1Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI 53201-1881, USA. ergo@marquette.edu
Human Factors
|April 25, 2000
Summary
Split computer keyboards significantly reduce wrist ulnar deviation, a key risk factor for work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). This ergonomic improvement promotes neutral wrist posture during typing.
Area of Science:
- Ergonomics
- Occupational Health
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are a significant concern for office workers.
- Ulnar deviation of the wrist is a known risk factor for WMSDs.
- Conventional keyboards may contribute to poor wrist posture.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of commercially available alternative computer keyboards on wrist and forearm posture.
- To compare the effectiveness of different split keyboard designs in reducing ulnar deviation.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 90 experienced office workers.
- Testing of three types of alternative keyboards: split fixed angle, split adjustable angle, and vertically inclined.
- Measurement of wrist posture, specifically ulnar deviation, compared to a conventional keyboard.
Main Results:
- Commercially available split keyboards, when set up correctly, reduced mean ulnar deviation from 12 degrees to approximately 5 degrees.
- This reduction brought the wrist posture closer to a neutral position in the radial/ulnar plane.
- Alternative keyboards demonstrated a significant improvement in wrist posture compared to conventional designs.
Conclusions:
- Split keyboards effectively minimize wrist ulnar deviation, a major occupational risk factor.
- These findings support the use of split keyboards to reduce the risk of WMSDs.
- Ergonomists and typists can utilize these keyboard designs to improve typing ergonomics.