I’m not typing this.

Sure, you’re reading typed words, but I’m not using my fingers to type them on a keyboard. Like many others, I type for 8 to 10 — sometimes 14+ hours a day.

Continuous typing often causes pain and fatigue in my hands, tendons, and wrists. So, how did I manage to write this without typing? I held down the Windows key on my keyboard and tapped the letter H (Win+H).

This is just one of several techniques I use to alleviate typing pain, including ergonomic keyboards, posture adjustments, stretching, and regular breaks. 

Use Windows Hot Keys to Your Advantage

Known as Voice Typing in Windows, the Win+H technique can be used anywhere there’s a flashing cursor for inputting text. It takes a huge amount of repetitive stress off my hands.

In addition to voice typing, many people invest in ergonomic keyboards and mice with wrist cushions. I never thought I’d pay more than $5-$10 for a mouse until I started having pain in my hands. Once I had a mouse that fits better in my hands, I couldn’t believe I hadn’t purchased one sooner.

My subsequent purchases were my laptop and keyboard stands. These now ensure my hands are positioned properly while my head looks at my screen at the correct height. 

What is Proper Typing Posture?

So, what is proper typing posture, and why is it important? 

Angles:

Elbows should be at a 90-degree angle, close to your body. This angle minimizes tension in your shoulders and arms. Your knees should also be 90 degrees, with your feet flat on the ground. If you’re standing, your feet should be hip-width apart. 

Alignment:

It is critical to keep your wrists in a neutral position, not bent up or down. Your hands should hover comfortably over the keyboard. This positioning keeps your wrists and hands moving in the least strenuous fashion while typing. 

Height:

Monitors should be eye-level, so you don’t have to tilt your head up or down. This setup helps prevent neck strain. 

Distance:

Position your screen about an arm’s length away from your face. Place your keyboard and mouse close enough to avoid overreaching. These measures will ensure you’re not straining your hands and eyes or causing your body to hunch over your devices. 

Support:

Wrist rests, lumbar supports, footrests, and back braces help maintain proper posture. Products like these can significantly reduce strain by positioning your body ideally for typing. 

Final Tip for Pain-Free Typing

Lastly, take frequent breaks! This can be tough in some professions, but it really is essential. Breaks give our bodies time to recover, and we can even help by stretching our shoulders, hands, and fingers.

All too often, we get tied up in our jobs and forget to take care of ourselves. Staying hydrated and stretching out significantly helps our bodies from burning out, especially during this summer heat. 

Angela Faretta is the Services Manager for TREYSTA technology management, located in Gettysburg and York. Questions? Reach out!