Computer mouse syndrome is a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) resulting from prolonged use of the mouse and keyboard. It encompasses various conditions, including tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by repetitive movements and extended periods in front of a screen.

Understanding Computer Mouse Syndrome: Symptoms, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment

1. Mouse Risk Factors:

1. Prolonged sedentary work: Spending long hours in front of a screen without adequate breaks can increase the risk of developing this syndrome.
2. Poor posture: Maintaining inappropriate positions for extended periods places excessive strain on muscles and tendons.
3. Hormonal disorders: Conditions such as pregnancy or menopause can predispose individuals to the syndrome.
4. Metabolic diseases: Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or hypothyroidism are contributing factors.
5. Trauma: Previous injuries to the wrist or hand can increase susceptibility.
6. Exposure to cold: Working in cold environments without adequate protection can exacerbate symptoms.
7. Stress and sleep disorders: These factors can heighten pain perception and slow recovery.
8. Overweight: Excess weight places additional pressure on joints and tendons.
9. Use of vibrating equipment: Prolonged exposure to vibrations can damage soft tissues.

2. Symptoms :

1. In the fingers (thumb, index, middle): Tingling and pain. Loss of sensitivity. Electric shocks also felt in the wrist and forearm. Sensation of stiffness, coldness, or swelling. Weakness of the thumb, making it difficult to grasp objects.
2. In the neck, shoulders, wrist, and hand: Stiffness and discomfort.Persistent pain at night and during activities involving the wrist. Need to rub the wrist and fingers to relieve numbness and pain.

Without intervention, these symptoms can worsen, leading to more severe conditions such as tenosynovitis or carpal tunnel syndrome, potentially resulting in finger paralysis and loss of sensitivity.

3. Prevention:

3.1. Workstation setup:

1. Mouse position: Place the mouse close to the keyboard to avoid unnecessary arm extensions. Opt for an ergonomic or vertical mouse, or consider using a touchpad.
2. Keyboard position: Adjust the keyboard’s height and depth so that the arms remain relaxed and close to the body, preventing excessive tension.
3. Screen position: Position the screen 40 to 60 cm from the eyes, with the top third at eye level, to maintain a neutral neck posture.

3.2. Body posture:

Sit with a straight back, relaxed shoulders, and feet flat on the floor. Avoid crossing legs and ensure forearms are parallel to the ground.

3.3. Regular breaks:

Take 5 to 10-minute breaks every hour to stand up, walk, and perform stretches targeting the back, shoulders, elbows, wrists, and hands.

During these breaks, look away from the screen to rest your eyes by focusing on a distant point.

3.4. Stretching and strengthening exercises:

Incorporate specific exercises to strengthen wrist and hand muscles, enhancing their resistance to repetitive strain.

3.5. Stress management:

Adopt relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, to reduce stress, which can exacerbate symptoms.

4. Treatment

4.1. Rest:

Rest the wrist to reduce inflammation. Wearing a suitable splint can help maintain a neutral position and alleviate tingling and numbness. Apply cold to painful areas to decrease inflammation and pain.

4.2. Medication:

Consult a healthcare professional for the prescription of analgesics, such as paracetamol, to manage pain.

4.3. Manual therapies:

Osteopathy can be beneficial by relieving compression points of the median nerve, improving circulation, and reducing pain. Physiotherapy may also be recommended to strengthen muscles and improve posture.

4.4. Surgical intervention:

In severe cases, surgery may be considered to release the median nerve, especially in advanced carpal tunnel syndrome.

Early consultation with a healthcare professional is essential at the onset of symptoms to prevent the worsening of the disorder.