Showing posts with label carpal tunnel syndrome. Show all posts
Showing posts with label carpal tunnel syndrome. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Adaptive Ring-Pen (Hardware)

Adaptive Ring-Pen


http://www.ringpen.com/whyringpen.html

Description of Technology: An ergonomically designed pen with a hole in the middle. Pen controlled mainly by thumb and index finger.

Features: Center of gravity is just below the hole. Pen allows for more rapid writing and reduces hand soreness and cramping (14). Comes with your choice of color. User manual and tips on how to use the Ring-Pen are accessible from their website.

Manufacturer: No Grip Ring-Pen by Grandee Corporation

Users/Benefits: Helps users with arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and "poor fine motor skills" (14). Pen is recommended for anyone who does a large deal of writing. Since you do not use your middle finger with this pen, the potential for getting calluses or blisters is low (14).

Issues:I have not tried this pen myself; if you are used to using a regular pencil or pen, I have a feeling it may take some time getting used to the Ring-Pen.

Cost: $7.95

To Learn More: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhGp9_GuVPc

Trackball Mouse (Hardware)

Trackball Mouse



http://oldkeytools.bamroberts.com/mice/bigtrack_oversized_bright_large_trackball_for_kids.asp

Description of Technology: An adapted mouse with a zooming wheel and buttons.

Features:

  • Some available with sockets for ability switches (13)
  • The trackball can be used with another mouse (USB plug-in)
  • Designed for desktops and laptops
  • Takes up little room on desk
  • Colorful
  • Made to "sustain rough handling" (13)

Manufacturers: Logitech, BIGtrack, Microsoft, Kensington, Fellowes Micro Trac, IOGEAR Phaser, X-Arcade, Marble

Users/Benefits: Persons with lack of fine motor skills, carpal tunnel syndrome, or arthritis. "Just a touch from a knee, finger, elbow, toe or foot on the...ball is all it takes to cruise around the computer screen and a tap on one of the...buttons pulls out various other computer functions" (13).

Issues: Since trackballs, unlike a regular mouse, do not come with a computer purchase, they are an extra cost. Prices range from $13 (basic) - $100 (optical).