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Date: 27.04.2013
From: Emily Flynn

Subject: Computer input device for arthritis sufferers?

Hi guys,

I am a third year product design student who has had psoriatic arthritis for the past 18 years (I'm 31).

I am carrying out some research for our final year project next year, and I was hoping to get some information on what problems arthritis sufferers might have with computer input devices such as mice and keyboards.

My arthritis hasn't been severe for quite a while, but when it was, my wrists were probably my most difficult and painful joints to deal with. I wouldn't have used PC's to the extent I use them now though, so I would really like to know how people with bad wrists/knuckles/fingers deal with typing and using mice and such.

I have a background in IT and given the fact I have arthritis, by working with others who have arthritis I think there is an opportunity to design something actually useful! : )

Thanks and any input greatly welcomed

Emily
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Date: 27.04.2013
From: Bsk

Subject: Re: Computer input device for arthritis sufferers?

I don't use a mouse anymore as it was too painful. I use a trackpad these days. Much easier. I think with touchscreen and latest technology there isn't such a problem any more.
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Date: 27.04.2013
From: Emily

Subject: Re: Computer input device for arthritis sufferers?

I can see how touchscreen technology is beneficial, but you can only use touchscreen for so much. For example I do a lot of graphic design which you certainly need to use a mouse and keyboard for.
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Date: 27.04.2013
From: bsk

Subject: Re: Computer input device for arthritis sufferers?

I use a graphic tablet with a pen as I can't use a mouse.
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Date: 29.04.2013
From: Patsy

Subject: Re: Computer input device for arthritis sufferers?

Def tablet and touchscreen so much easier to use. I've had to give up full tme job where i was sat at computer all day due to back pain but also pain in fingers frm typing. Maybe touchpad keyboard would help alot of sufferers who need to work on pc rather than tablet.
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Date: 29.04.2013
From: Heather

Subject: Re: Computer input device for arthritis sufferers?

When I have bad flares, my fingers and wrists are affected. It makes typing and using the mouse really painful. I have dictation software installed (employer paid for it) on my PC, which helps, but only so far. I'd not considered the touch screen/tablet as an option. Would definitely be interested in hearing other solutions too!
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Date: 05.05.2013
From: Rowantree

Subject: Re: Computer input device for arthritis sufferers?

I wear wrist supports. I need to use the mouse a lot as I use excel a lot. Not sure dictation software would help with that. Also I work in a shared office so dictation software would be impractical. I wouldn't want to be put in a room on my own! I have an ergonomic mouse and wrist pad. But none of the above are quite good enough. I'm still in pain all day. The wrist supports are the best really.
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Date: 06.05.2013
From: Heather

Subject: Re: Computer input device for arthritis sufferers?

I use Excel all the time and you move cells by voice commands, so you may find it would be OK. I'm also in an open plan office and so so long as you make sure your microphone is positioned correctly, you shouldn't have any issues there either.
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Date: 02.11.2015
From: brgorm55

Subject: Re: Computer input device for arthritis sufferers?

Hi emily,
I know this topic was posted a long time ago, on the off chance you might see this comment i am now also working on a similar subject i would love to be able to talk with you directly about your project. Thank you
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Date: 19.11.2015
From: Jack

Subject: Re: Computer input device for arthritis sufferers?

Hi brgorm55,
I am a second year Product Design student also currently looking into this as a design project. I was wandering if I would be able to chat with you directly and find out if you have made any further progress?
Thank you
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