Heated Computer Mouse Video from CBS News The Early Show

Hot, Sexy, Heated Mouse, Heated Keyboard

ValueRays® Heated Computer Keyboard - A Warm Wrist Rest Pad

The ValueRays® Warm Keyboard Pad in LA Splash Magazine illustrates how ergonomics meets heat! Infrared heated, the ValueRays® heated computer keyboard pad is an ideal resting place for keyboard wrists. The easy plug and play installation provides a USB plug for a continuous flow of deep healing infrared heat to tired, overworked keyboard wrists. It's an ideal gift idea and available for under $20! Plus, it ships free from IGMproducts.com and Warm-Mouse-Heated-Keyboard.com.

In my opinion, every ergonomic computer workstation should be equipped with a ValueRays® Warm Keyboard Pad. Read the Warm Mouse Reviews. The Warm Keyboard Pad has taken the technology industry by storm! Plus, the infrared heat is healthy for its users. It's like a mini heat therapy session every time you type!

How Computer Keyboards Work

by Jeff Tyson and Tracy V. Wilson
from How Stuff Works

When you look at all the extras and options that are available for new computer keyboards, it can be hard to believe that their original design came from mechanical typewriters that didn't even use electricity. Now, you can buy ergonomic keyboards that bear little resemblance to flat, rectangular models with ordinary square keys. Some flashier models light up, roll up or fold up, and others offer options for programming your own commands and shortcuts.

But no matter how many bells and whistles they offer, most keyboards operate using similar technology. They use switches and circuits to translate a person's keystrokes into a signal a computer can understand. In this article we will explore keyboard technology along with different key layouts, options and designs.

Keyboard Basics
A keyboard's primary function is to act as an input device. Using a keyboard, a person can type a document, use keystroke shortcuts, access menus, play games and perform a variety of other tasks. Keyboards can have different keys depending on the manufacturer, the operating system they're designed for, and whether they are attached to a desktop computer or part of a laptop. But for the most part, these keys, also called keycaps, are the same size and shape from keyboard to keyboard. They're also placed at a similar distance from one another in a similar pattern, no matter what language or alphabet the keys represent.
Most keyboards have between 80 and 110 keys, including:

Typing keys
A numeric keypad
Function keys
Control keys

The typing keys include the letters of the alphabet, generally laid out in the same pattern used for typewriters. According to legend, this layout, known as QWERTY for its first six letters, helped keep mechanical typewriters' metal arms from colliding and jamming as people typed. Some people question this story – whether it’s true or not, the QWERTY pattern had long been a standard by the time computer keyboards came around.

Keyboards can also use a variety of other typing key arrangements. The most widely known is Dvorak, named for its creator, August Dvorak. The Dvorak layout places all of the vowels on the left side of the keyboard and the most common consonants on the right. The most commonly used letters are all found along the home row. The home row is the main row where you place your fingers when you begin typing. People who prefer the Dvorak layout say it increases their typing speed and reduces fatigue. Other layouts include ABCDE, XPeRT, QWERTZ and AZERTY. Each is named for the first keys in the pattern. The QWERTZ and AZERTY arrangements are commonly used in Europe.

The numeric keypad is a more recent addition to the computer keyboard. As the use of computers in business environments increased, so did the need for speedy data entry. Since a large part of the data was numbers, a set of 17 keys, arranged in the same configuration found on adding machines and calculators, was added to the keyboard.


In 1986, IBM further extended the basic keyboard with the addition of function and control keys. Applications and operating systems can assign specific commands to the function keys. Control keys provide cursor and screen control. Four arrow keys arranged in an inverted T formation between the typing keys and numeric keypad move the cursor on the screen in small increments.


Other common control keys include:

Home
End
Insert
Delete
Page Up
Page Down
Control (Ctrl)
Alternate (Alt)
Escape (Esc)

The Windows keyboard adds some extra control keys: two Windows or Start keys, and an Application key. Apple keyboards, on the other hand, have Command (also known as "Apple") keys. A keyboard developed for Linux users features Linux-specific hot keys, including one marked with "Tux" the penguin -- the Linux logo/mascot.

Inside the Keyboard
A keyboard is a lot like a miniature computer. It has its own processor and circuitry that carries information to and from that processor. A large part of this circuitry makes up the key matrix.

The key matrix is a grid of circuits underneath the keys. In all keyboards (except for capacitive models, which we'll discuss in the next section), each circuit is broken at a point below each key. When you press a key, it presses a switch, completing the circuit and allowing a tiny amount of current to flow through. The mechanical action of the switch causes some vibration, called bounce, which the processor filters out. If you press and hold a key, the processor recognizes it as the equivalent of pressing a key repeatedly.

When the processor finds a circuit that is closed, it compares the location of that circuit on the key matrix to the character map in its read-only memory (ROM). A character map is basically a comparison chart or lookup table. It tells the processor the position of each key in the matrix and what each keystroke or combination of keystrokes represents. For example, the character map lets the processor know that pressing the a key by itself corresponds to a small letter "a," but the Shift and a keys pressed together correspond to a capital "A."

A computer can also use separate character maps, overriding the one found in the keyboard. This can be useful if a person is typing in a language that uses letters that don't have English equivalents on a keyboard with English letters. People can also set their computers to interpret their keystrokes as though they were typing on a Dvorak keyboard even though their actual keys are arranged in a QWERTY layout. In addition, operating systems and applications have keyboard accessibility settings that let people change their keyboard's behavior to adapt to disabilities.

Keyboard Switches
Keyboards use a variety of switch technologies. Capacitive switches are considered to be non-mechanical because they do not physically complete a circuit like most other keyboard technologies. Instead, current constantly flows through all parts of the key matrix. Each key is spring-loaded and has a tiny plate attached to the bottom of it. When you press a key, it moves this plate closer to the plate below it. As the two plates move closer together, the amount of current flowing through the matrix changes. The processor detects the change and interprets it as a key press for that location. Capacitive switch keyboards are expensive, but they have a longer life than any other keyboard. Also, they do not have problems with bounce since the two surfaces never come into actual contact.
All of the other types of switches used in keyboards are mechanical in nature. Each provides a different level of audible and tactile response -- the sounds and sensations that typing creates. Mechanical key switches include:

Rubber dome
Membrane
Metal contact
Foam element

Rubber dome switches are very common. They use small, flexible rubber domes, each with a hard carbon center. When you press a key, a plunger on the bottom of the key pushes down against the dome, and the carbon center presses against a hard, flat surface beneath the key matrix. As long as the key is held, the carbon center completes the circuit. When the key is released, the rubber dome springs back to its original shape, forcing the key back up to its at-rest position. Rubber dome switch keyboards are inexpensive, have pretty good tactile response and are fairly resistant to spills and corrosion because of the rubber layer covering the key matrix.

Rather than having a switch for each key, membrane keyboards use a continuous membrane that stretches from one end to another. A pattern printed in the membrane completes the circuit when you press a key. Some membrane keyboards use a flat surface printed with representations of each key rather than keycaps. Membrane keyboards don't have good tactile response, and without additional mechanical components they don't make the clicking sound that some people like to hear when they're typing. However, they're generally inexpensive to make.

Metal contact and foam element keyboards are increasingly less common. Metal contact switches simply have a spring-loaded key with a strip of metal on the bottom of the plunger. When the key is pressed, the metal strip connects the two parts of the circuit. The foam element switch is basically the same design but with a small piece of spongy foam between the bottom of the plunger and the metal strip, providing a better tactile response. Both technologies have good tactile response, make satisfyingly audible "clicks," and are inexpensive to produce. The problem is that the contacts tend to wear out or corrode faster than on keyboards that use other technologies. Also, there is no barrier that prevents dust or liquids from coming in direct contact with the circuitry of the key matrix.

Different manufacturers have used these standard technologies, and a few others, to create a wide range of non-traditional keyboards. We'll take a look at some of these non-traditional keyboards in the next section.

Non-Traditional Keyboards
A lot of modifications to the traditional keyboard design are an attempt to make them safer or easier to use. For example, some people have associated increased keyboard use with repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome, although scientific studies have produced conflicting results. Ergonomic keyboard designs are intended to keep a person's hands in a more natural position while typing in an attempt to prevent injuries. While these keyboards can certainly keep people from holding their hands in a "praying mantis" position, studies disagree on whether they actually prevent injury.

The simplest ergonomic keyboards look like traditional keyboards that have been divided down the middle, keeping a person's hands farther apart and aligning the wrists with the forearms. More complex designs place the two halves of the keyboard at varying angles to one another and to the surface on which the keyboard rests. Some go even further, placing the two halves of the keyboard on the armrests of chairs or making them completely perpendicular to the desk surface. Others, like the Datahand, don't look much like keyboards at all.

Some modifications, while not necessarily ergonomic, are designed to make keyboards more portable, more versatile or just cooler:

Das Keyboard is a completely black keyboard with weighted keys that require more pressure from a person's strongest fingers and less pressure from the weaker ones.
The Virtual Laser Keyboard projects a representation of a keyboard onto a flat surface. When used successfully, a person's fingers pass through the beam of infrared light above the projected surface, and a sensor interprets it as a keystroke.

The True-touch Roll-up keyboard is flexible and can be rolled up to fit in a backpack or bag.

Illuminated keyboards, like the Ion Illuminated Keyboard, use light-emitting diodes or electroluminescent film to send light through the keys or the spaces between keys.

The Optimus keyboard has organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) in the keys. Users can change what letter, command or action each key represents, and the OLED can change to display the new information.

With the exception of the Virtual Laser Keyboard, which has its own sensing system, each of these keyboards uses the same type of technology as traditional models do to communicate with the computer. We'll look at that technology next.

From the Keyboard to the Computer
As you type, the processor in the keyboard analyzes the key matrix and determines what characters to send to the computer. It maintains these characters in its memory buffer and then sends the data.

A PS/2 type keyboard connector.

Many keyboards connect to the computer through a cable with a PS/2 or USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector. Laptops use internal connectors. Regardless of which type of connector is used, the cable must carry power to the keyboard, and it must carry signals from the keyboard back to the computer.

Wireless keyboards, on the other hand, connect to the computer through infrared (IR), radio frequency (RF) or Bluetooth connections. IR and RF connections are similar to what you'd find in a remote control. Regardless of which sort of signal they use, wireless keyboards require a receiver, either built in or plugged in to the USB port, to communicate with the computer. Since they don't have a physical connection to the computer, wireless keyboards have an AC power connection or use batteries for power.


Whether it's through a cable or wireless, the signal from the keyboard is monitored by the computer's keyboard controller. This is an integrated circuit (IC) that processes all of the data that comes from the keyboard and forwards it to the operating system. When the operating system (OS) is notified that there is data from the keyboard, it checks to see if the keyboard data is a system level command. A good example of this is Ctrl-Alt-Delete on a Windows computer, which reboots the system. Then, the OS passes the keyboard data on to the current application.

The application determines whether the keyboard data is a command, like Alt-f, which opens the File menu in a Windows application. If the data is not a command, the application accepts it as content, which can be anything from typing a document to entering a URL to performing a calculation. If the current application does not accept keyboard data, it simply ignores the information. This whole process, from pressing the key to entering content into an application, happens almost instantaneously.

To learn more about computers and keyboards, check out the links on the next page.

Heated Computer Keyboard: Ergonomic warm wrist pad provides support

Seems like the only part of the ergonomic equation not getting much attention these days is the computer keyboard. Sure, there are many ergonomic keyboards with strange shapes and designs, but the cost of them prohibit a test drive for most of us. We purchase a new computer, and a standard keyboard is included. We get used to using a standard keyboard and stick with it until something new comes along.

If wrists and hands remain on the desk top or on the keyboard itself, it can become quite uncomfortable to type. The desk and the keyboard surfaces are cold. It doesn't take very long for the wrists and hands to feel the chill. It can actually make your entire body feel cold. Cold hands when using the computer are uncomfortable and unproductive.

A value-added item to provide warmth and support is a heated computer keyboard wrist pad. One of the warm keyboard pad designs can be put into the microwave to heat. The warmth lasts about 15 minutes. Although novel, the practicality of this style of heated keyboard pad is not practical for most.

An USB (universal serial bus) connected keyboard pad seems to be the best solution for adding warmth and ergonomic support while keyboarding. A heated keyboard pad connects to the computer and draws a low voltage of electricity providing warmth to the pad's surface. The keyboard pad consists of a cloth cover and a soft sponge-like interior. The arms and wrists rest on the pad at just the right height over the keyboard. The surface of the pad delivers a steady flow of heat. Hands never touch the keyboard or the desk's surface.

The remarkable component of the USB heated keyboard pad is its healing qualities. The heating element is made of a carbon fiber which produces infrared heat. Infrared heat has been used for many years as a source of healing. The most familiar and natural source of infrared heat is the sun. A heated keyboard pad using a carbon fiber delivers infrared heat without the harmful UV rays of the sun.

Research shows 20-30 minutes of infrared heat treatment daily can improve blood circulation through the blood vessels and reduce symptoms related to RSI (repetitive stress injury). People who suffer from poor circulation, arthritis, diabetes and Raynaud's welcome warmth throughout the year to deal with cold, painful joints and muscle tension. By using an infrared heated computer keyboard pad, arms, wrists and hands are ergonomically supported in front of the keyboard, and they are kept warm. Plus, the soft pad is a comfortable resting place for arms and elbows.

Heated computer products are somewhat new to the computer accessories market. A warm mouse, heated mouse pad and warm, heated keyboard pad are just the beginning of heated ergonomic computer work aids available today. With the continued use of the computer, and the advancements of technology, we'll probably see many more heated computer gadgets invented. USB heated computer products are an economical and energy-efficient way to provide warmth and ergonomic support while using the computer.

Cold Hand Help for Computer Users: Infrared Heat Warm Mouse, Heated Mouse Pad & Warm Computer Keyboard Pad

- See the Heated Computer Keyboard Pad -

Warm ergonomic support for wrists, arms and hands

It doesn't matter if you sit and think, or if you just sit! It doesn't matter if it's Summer, Winter, Spring or Fall. When your hands are cold, your entire body feels the chill. Chills create distraction, and the only thing to think about is the cold. Not all people have cold hands when using the computer, but for those who do, there are infrared heat, ergonomic computer work aids to help cold hand pain.

Three items used whenever we use a computer are the computer mouse, mouse pad and computer keyboard. Using the computer mouse and keyboard with cold hands is very uncomfortable and at times very painful. A cold mouse hand creates numb fingers, and the chill is felt to the bone. Trying to grip a computer mouse and typing with freezing, frigid fingers and hands is nearly impossible. The solution is an infrared heat warm mouse, heated mouse pad and heated computer keyboard.

Heated computer gadgets and mouse hand warmers connect to the computer using an USB port. USB connections create an energy-efficient and cost-effective source of heat energy during winter months or during the summer when air-conditioning creates a cold work space and hands become cold. Some people sit near a drafty window or under a ceiling fan where cold drafts become a problem. Using a heated mouse, warm mouse pad and warm keyboard pad can help relieve cold hand pain.

When an USB warm computer gadget is designed with a carbon fiber, it creates infrared heat. Infrared heat is an excellent source of healing energy. The natural source of infrared heat comes from the sun. It's the deep penetrating heat we feel when the sun's rays hit our skin. The sun's natural infrared rays are capable of penetrating deep into the body where they elevate surface temperature and activate healthy body functions.

The infrared heat from USB warm computer gadgets is the same as the sun's infrared heat without the harmful UV rays of the sun. The infrared waves are a safe alternative to natural sun infrared rays. The infrared rays heat objects by direct light conversion - a process to directly warm an object; i.e., the warm mouse, warm mouse pad, and warm keyboard pad, and not the surrounding air. Infrared heat rays from the warming mouse, warming mouse pad and warming keyboard pad penetrate the hand, warm the muscles, tissues and dilate the blood vessels. The infrared heating process improves blood circulation by allowing the blood to flow more freely through the cold, painful, tense hand.

A standard, USB heated computer mouse connects to the computer through an USB (United Serial Bus) port and delivers infrared heat creating a comfortably warm mouse hand. It has the basic functions and characteristics of a standard mouse with the added feature of delivering heat to a cold mouse hand. The USB infrared heated, warm computer mouse is an efficient way to stay warm by using energy generated from the computer. The USB warm mouse is ergonomically shaped and comfortable to hold. It is an optical scrolling mouse with an accurate 800dpi. The warm mouse has two buttons and three functions, and it works with any PC, Mac or Notebook style computer. A warm mouse has a "plug & play" install with no additional software needed.

The heated mouse pad connects to the computer through an USB (United Serial Bus) port and delivers infrared heat to the mouse hand. It has many more functions compared to a standard mouse pad. The USB heated mouse pad creates a warm mouse pad surface to rest the hand and wrist. It's an efficient way to keep the mouse hand warm. The USB warm mouse pad is ergonomically shaped and comfortable to use. It has an ergonomic wrist support pad at the front of the mousepad, and at the opposite end of the mousepad there are four USB ports. The warming mouse pad is constructed of a smooth, hard surface compatible to use with any mechanical or optical mouse for ease of mouse movement. A standard heated mouse pad measures about 10" x 10" with a height of about .5 inch. When plugged into the USB port, the heated pad illuminates around three sides with colored lights. The warm mouse pad operates on a safe, low voltage and generates soothing heated mouse pad warmth. The warm mouse pad works with a 2.0 USB outlet on a PC, Mac or Notebook style computer. It has a "plug & play" install with no additional software needed.

The warm mouse and heated mouse pad help the cold mouse hand and serve a purpose when used together or separately. When the two items are used in combination with third item, a mouse hand warmer blanket pouch, infrared heat is insulated inside and under a mouse hand blanket creating a perfectly warm mouse hand environment.

With the mouse hand warm, the keyboard hands are still an issue for the person who suffers with cold hands. The heated computer keyboard pad connects to the computer through an USB port and delivers infrared heat to the hands, arms and wrists. It is ergonomically shaped and offers support for the keyboard hands and wrists for typing on the keyboard. The wrist pad is easy to maintain. It has a nylon cover with a zipper closure making it easy to remove and hand wash/air dry. A standard USB heated computer keyboard pad measures about 16 inches long, 3 inches wide and has a height of about 3/4" tall. It has a soft sponge insert making the wrist pad very comfortable for keyboard use. It aligns your wrist ergonomically over the keyboard adding supprt and warmth while you type or work. The USB heated keyboard wrist pad works with any PC, Mac or Notebook style computer. It has a "plug & play" install with no additional software needed.

There is help for people who have cold hands when using the computer. Warm computer gadgets to help cold hands are available online. Making an investment in one or all four computer gadgets to help relieve the cold has high a payoff value when cold hands cause pain and discomfort. A simple Google search for "infrared heat computer gadgets" will provide available online options.

Source: http://www.IGMproducts.com & http://www.ValueRays.com

Blog Catalog - Heated Computer Keyboard

Need warmth for your computer keyboard hands? Wrists? Arms? The ValueRays heated keyboard pad is ergonomically shaped and delivers the right amount of support and heat. Body temperature is about 98.6 degrees farenheit. The ValueRays USB Heated Keyboard Warm Wrist Pad generates a regulated heat ranging from 99 to 104 degrees. The heat the ValueRays USB Heated Keyboard Warm Wrist Pad generates keeps the hands, wrists and arms comfortably warm while working at the keyboard.

Source: http://www.valuerays.com/

A warm vote for computer keyboard at Start Up Nation

Please click the above picture and vote for our start up company on Start Up Nation. Voting deadline is March 31, 2009. Thank you!

http://www.igmproducts.com/

We specialize in Ergonomic Heated Computer Aids.

Warm Thoughts: Keyboard Ergonomics

Computer Keyboard Ergonomics

from CDC.gov

Many ergonomic problems associated with computer workstations occur in the shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist, and hand. Continuous work on the computer may expose soft tissues in these areas to repetition, awkward postures, and forceful exertions, especially if the workstation is not set up properly.

The following adjustments should be made to your workstation to help prevent the development of an ergonomic problem in the upper extremities:

First adjust your chair as mentioned above, then with your arms resting comfortably at your side, raise your forearms to form a 90 degree angle with your upper arms.

Adjust keyboard height so shoulders can relax and allow arms to rest at sides. An articulating keyboard tray is often necessary to accommodate proper height and distance.

Position the keyboard directly in front and be close to the user to avoid excessive extended reaching.

Forearms parallel to the floor (approximately 90 degree angle at elbow).

Mouse should be placed adjacent to keyboard and at the same height as the keyboard.

Avoid extended and elevated reaching for keyboard and mouse. The back of the wrist should be kept flat (in a neutral position). Do not rest the hand on the mouse when your are not using it. Rest hands in your lap when not entering data.

A padded wrist rest will help to keep your wrist in a straight and neutral position while typing and keep your arms off the sharp edges of the work surface.

Do not rest your wrists or hands on a palm or wrist rest when you are keying. These rests are designed to provide support only during breaks from keying.

The slope of the keyboard may need to be adjusted so that it is flat in order that your wrists are straight, and not bent back while you are typing.

Press the keys gently; do not bang them or hold them down for long periods. Keep your shoulders, arms, hands, and fingers relaxed.

If your work surface is too high and not adjustable, adjust your chair to bring your arms to the proper position. If you raise your chair make sure your feet are properly supported.

ValueRays Heated Computer Keyboard - Warm Wrist Hand Arm Pad

ValueRays - Makers of Heated Computer Products
Infrared Heated Computer Gadgets for People who Suffer with Cold Hands

The USB connected warming keyboard pad is an ideal addition to your computer gadget collection. If you, or someone you know, suffers with cold hands, wrists or needs ergonomic support at the keyboard, this product is ideal. Alone the heated keyboard serves a purpose, and when combined and used along with the heated computer mouse and heated mouse pad a perfect heated ergonomic computer work station is created.

Not enough is said about the healing effects of infrared heat. Now, available as a warm computer keyboard pad, the infrared heat produces a healthy surface for your keyboard hands, wrists and arms. The infrared heated keyboard pad is designed using a carbon fiber. Carbon fibers produce infrared heat. The warm computer keyboard pad delivers a steady level of infrared heat on the surface of the a comfortable, ergonomic cloth pad in front of the computer keyboard. It doesn't get "hot" and it won't melt your desk or keyboard. The warm keyboard pad's heating element is under a cloth case and soft, sponge surface creating a comfortably warm arm rest with warmth for your keyboard hands and arms. The pad's surface is warm, making a comfortable resting place for the hands, arms and wrists while you are typing or browsing the Internet. The keyboard pad is a comfortable place to rest elbows, too. It has multi-functionality and is a welcomed item to your computer desk top.

Here's more information about a warm computer keyboard pad, the USB heated computer keyboard pad, the ValueRays Infrared heated keyboard:

• A heated computer keyboard pad warms the hands, arms and wrists in the same manner as natural sunlight without the harmful UV rays. The deep penetrating infrared heat rays travel through the skin's layers deep into the muscle tissue. Along the way, blood circulation increases, toxins are removed, and the healing of stiffness and pain is experienced.
  
  


• Keyboards and the area on the desk top are cold to the touch. After long use, keyboard hands get cold because they are resting on a cold surface. The ValueRays infrared heated warm keyboard pad eliminates the cold surface making it easy to work for longer periods of time without a cold mouse hand. Plus, the soft sponge covered surface is ergonomic to create the proper height for your typing hands over the keyboard.
  
  


• ValueRays uses a low 5 volt heating element for the warm keyboard pad making it very safe for use at home or at work. Plug the USB cord into the USB port when using the heated keyboard pad and pull the plug when the heated keyboard pad is not needed.
  
  


• Occupational Therapists and Hand Therapists report an increase of hand injuries due to the increased amount of computer use. The importance of ergonomics is at an all-time high. The use of healthy computer gadgets will assist in creating a productive and healing work environment. The infrared heated computer keyboard pad assists a worker's rehabilitation after hand injury during and ongoing throughout the rehabilitative, healing process.
  
  


• A warm computer keyboard area feels good all year. During the winter when temperatures drop, the heated keyboard pad delivers a cost-efficient heat source to your hands, wrists and arms. When your hands are warm, the comfort travels to the rest of the body. In the summer, when air-conditioning is used to cool a room or office space, the heated computer keyboard pad takes the cold edge off any chills in your work area. Plus, warehouse workers or people who work outdoors may need warmth all year. The heated computer products are ideal to provide a low-cost, energy-efficient source of comfort.
  
  


• Some medications decrease the flow of blood to the extremeties causing cold hands. The fingertips contain some of the densest areas of nerve endings on the human body, they are also the richest source of tactile feedback so that sense of touch is intimately associated with human hands. When your hands feel cold in normal room temperatures due to some medications, a warm keyboard pad will help compensate for the decrease in blood flow and the infrared heat will actually increase blood flow through the blood vessels which decreases the chance of poor circulation or the onset of computer-related hand injury like Carpal Tunnel.
  
  


• Smoking and the use of nicotine can cause cold hands. Infrared heat helps to remove the toxins in the blood cells picked up through smoking and through other environmental activities, even in some of the foods we eat and the air we breathe. An infrared heated keyboard pad when used for 20-30 minutes daily can help rid the body of these unwanted toxins. Infrared heat has the power to heal, repair and proactively prevent the onset of computer-related injuries when used properly to create an ergonomic work area.
  
  


• There are a variety of medical conditions people deal with daily which have cold hand symptoms and side effects. These people could benefit from using a heated computer keyboard pad. Some of the medical conditions include: Raynaud's disease, low thyroid levels, anemia, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, arthritis, carpal tunnel, tendonitis and many other medical conditions can produce cold hands. Sometimes these conditions make your entire body feel chilled and cold. An infrared heated keyboard pad can help keep you feeling comfortable even when others don't feel cold.
  
  


• Hypertension, stess, anxiety and nervous tendancies may require certain medications. These medications can cause cold hands. If suffering from stress or tension is part of your everyday lifestyle, or if the medication you are taking to control these medical conditions causes your hands to become cold, the warmth created by an infrared heated keyboard can provide relaxation and a soothing work experience.
  
  


• Warmth and heat is soothing when your hands hurt. Painful hands are not uncommon for computer users. Fingers, thumbs, palms, wrists, etc. ache, and these aches & pains come and go depending upon our actvities and the amount of time we sit and work at the computer. A warm computer keyboard pad surface helps relieve the pain by increasing blood flow, expanding blood vessels and increaseing blood circulation.
  
  


• Weather predicts our body's reaction to cold. When it's cold outside our body reacts with chills and an uncomfortable feeling. When we sit still at the computer, the chills seem to magnify. Warmth from a heated keyboard pad can help eleviate the chills by delivering a steady, even flow of infrared heat rays to our hands, thumbs, palms of hands, arms, wrists and body.
  
  


• When you feel comfortable, productivity increases. Not only does the infrared heat help increase blood flow, it also helps increase a person's productivity. When a person feels cold, they tend to slow down. When warmth is generated from a heated, warm mouse pad, a person feels relaxed and more eager to work. Versus a cold work environment, productivity is enhanced in a relaxed, warm work environment.
  
  


• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of the most common hand ailments experienced by many computer users. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. Sometimes, thickening from irritated tendons or other swelling narrows the tunnel and causes the median nerve to be compressed. The result may be pain, weakness, or numbness in the hand and wrist, radiating up the arm. A warm keyboard pad can help increase blood circulation to the tendons and reduce the chances of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome from occuring. When proactive approaches like using an infrared heated keyboard are practiced, some Carpal Tunnel problems are reversible or can be avoided altogether.
  
  


• Heat therapy is one way to treat arthritic joint pain. The warming infrared heat generated by an USB heated keyboard pad penetrates deeply through skin layers into the muscles and joints. Infrared heat has been used for many centuries by Eastern medicines. It's now available in computer devices, and the infrared heated keyboard pad is ideal for painful hand joints. The warming keyboard pad can actually help loosen and prevent joint stiffness. Research indicates 20-30 minutes of infrared heat therapy daily improves circulation and produces positive results.
  


• Humans pick up toxic by-products in the food we eat and the air we breathe. We also pick up toxins in medications and by handling certain materials. The toxins accumulate in our blood and go undetected until we become ill. Infrared heat helps to remove these toxins from our blood by effectively ridding the body of unwanted, harmful environmental toxins and inhibiting bacterial growth from these toxic substances.
  
  


• Warmth for Raynaud's Disease sufferers. There's no known cure for the phenomenon known as Raynaud's Disease, but there are ways to help the Raynaud's sufferer be more comfortable. A warm, heated keyboard pad helps create a comfortable ergonomic and warm experience for a person with cold hands. Most Raynaud's sufferers report cold hands, feet and extremeties due to spasms which cause blood vessels to tighten and close. The Raynaud's attacks can be brought on by a number of things, including the onset of cold weather, a drop in temperature and emotional or mental stress.
  
  


• An Infrared heated keyboard pad helps dilate blood vessels, bringing relief and healing to muscle and soft tissue injuries. Increased blood circulation allows more oxygen to get to oxygen-depleted muscles, so they recover faster. Infrared heat has also been used extensively in the treatment of arthritis, rheuematism, muscle spasms and pain relief.
  
  


• Infrared heat has been used for over 30 years in hospital incubators for premature babies. Nasa uses Infrared heat in manned missions reconizing the health and safety benefits for the Astronauts. Why not use infrared heat as an ergonomic computer work area.
  
  


• When toxins are present, blood circulation is blocked and cellular energy is impaired. The body's immune system is inhibited, which makes it difficult to fight disease. When Infrared heat is applied, the large water molecules in our bodies containing toxic gases like sulphur dioxide, carbon dioxide, lead, mercury and chlorine vibrate and are broken down. The encapsulated toxic materials and gases are then purged from the body through the skin.
  
  


• Infrared heat is absorbed by cells, causing a physical phenomenon called "resonance." The cellular activities are instantly invigorated, resulting in a better blood circulation and an overall improved metabolism. The increased blood circulation, but not blood pressure, stimulates the tiny blood vessels in the skin to expand accommodating the increased blood flow.
  
  


• Toxins in our bodies are generally acidic. Where toxins accumulate, blood circulation is blocked. Infrared heat therapy is effective in expanding clogged capillary vessels and successful in dissolving the toxins into the blood and out of the body.
  
  


• Infrared heat relieves pain by expanding blood vessels and increasing circulation. Better circulation allows more oxygen to reach injured areas of the body and helps reduce pain and speed up the healing process. Recent health and medical studies name Infrared heat as a successful treatment for arthritis, rheumatism and muscle pain. Infrared heated computer gadgets are ideal to use for hand pain, cold hands and for people recovering from injury or surgery. Heated keyboard pad helps relieve stiffness and tension.
  
  


• Toxins such as sodium, alcohol, nicotine, cholesterol and carcinogenic heavy metals (cadmium, lead, zinc, nickel) accumulate in the body everday. The body eliminates most toxins naturally by sweating and urination, but the process is sometimes slow. Infrared heat therapy stimulates the detoxification process. Infrared heat technology simply speeds up the body's natural process.

Heated Computer Keyboard

IGMproducts Heated Keyboard Pad

A heated computer keyboard is not angry, it's warm. The above photo shows a black heated wrist pad placeed in front of the computer keyboard to add comfort, ergonomic support and warmth for cold hands, sore wrists and tired arms.

Modern man solves cold mouse hand problems

Contemporary thinkers agree thinking outside the box is the best way to solve a problem. Pictured above is the modern man's solution to cold hands. Cold hands associated with long hours sitting at the computer! And, we all spend way too much time holding our computer mouse.

The Mouse Hand Warmer is a blanket pouch to hold a warm mouse and warm mouse pad. It's novel, it solves the problem for many people who sit and work all day with a freezing cold hand. Plus, the infrared heated computer accessories generate healing heat to the muscles relieving tension and stress on the hand and wrist.

This is the ultimate mouse hand experience. To learn more, click here.

ValueRays joining IGMproducts.com: Warm Mouse & Warm Mouse Pad

ValueRays computer accessories will soon be available at IGMproducts.com. The ValueRays computer items include USB warming devices for computer users. First to the site will be a warm mouse and a warm mouse pad. For more detail information about each ValueRays product, please visit IGMproducts.com.

Grammy Janet's Place Sponsors Mouse Hand Warmer Giveaway

Click Here to enter Grammy Janet's Place for a free Mouse Hand Warmer giveaway event. The event is sponsored in partnership with Bloggy Giveaway Carnival and IGMproducts.com. For more information CLICK HERE.

Grammy Janet's Place Sponsors Mouse Hand Warmer Giveaway

Click Here to enter Grammy Janet's Place for a free Mouse Hand Warmer giveaway event. The event is sponsored in partnership with Bloggy Giveaway Carnival and IGMproducts.com. For more information CLICK HERE.

Bloggers Unite for Refugees, November 10th

One of our favorite places online is Blog Catalogue. Please read the latest news....


This Nov. 10, all eyes will be on BlogCatalog members and bloggers who participate in Bloggers Unite For Refugees. Will you be one of them? Ever since we started helping bloggers unite for different causes, we've proven that a little good can go a long way in making the world a better place. This time, because of our work to increase human rights awareness, many members chose to go one step further to raise awareness for refugees — people who are impacted by these issues. So, on Nov. 10, thousands of bloggers will write about the various challenges faced by the 11 million people who have no country to call home and the 40 million more who have been displaced because of war and natural disasters.

*YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE*

By writing just one post for this cause, you can help raise awareness about refugees and help our partner, Refugees United, connect with local non-government organizations (NGOs) to help refugees in their search for lost loved ones. Their goal is to reunite children with parents, husbands with wives, and family members with friends. Participating is easy and you can learn more about this event at http://unite.blogcatalog.com. There, you will find action badges, source material for blog posts, and more information about these people who have no country to call home. With you help, I know we can encourage thousands of more bloggers to get involved and make Bloggers Unite For Refugees as successful as our last event with Amnesty International. It's one of those events that even if we reunite just one family, then we have made an immeasurable impact on the world. Thanks so much for your continued support! We really look forward to reading your posts and the posts of your friends on Nov. 10!

Inventor's Spot Gallery features mouse hand warmer computer accessory mousepad

As seen on Inventor's Spot Gallery.

Earth Friendly
Uses No Electricity
No Cords to get Tangled
Made in USA
Free Shipping
No Sales Tax

Invention Gallery is a place to show off your favorite invention. Inventor's Spot ill examine your submission for posting on their site. Click here for more details.

The Mouse Hand Warmer featured on the home page of Invention Gallery keeps your mouse hand covered by a warm blanket. Constructed of a warm polyester fleece blanket material with a non-slip surface. Fits standard mouse pads and any size computer mouse. Hand wash and air dry.

Instructions: Slip a standard sized mouse pad inside the Mouse Hand Warmer, or can be used alone without a mouse pad. If using a wireless mouse, the net front provides a clear optical connection. When using an USB connected mouse, slip the cord through a small slit opening made in the center front net. Easy to keep clean by hand washing with a mild detergent and air drying. Made in the USA. Uses no electricity. No cords to get tangled on your desk!

Mouse Hand Warmer is an Earth Friendly Product

IGMproducts.com is a green website. The Mouse Hand Warmer product is earth friendly and uses no electricity to keep your mouse hand warm. Unlike other USB computer accessories, the Mouse Hand Warmer insulates body heat under a warm, fleece blanket making the product energy-efficient at a time when energy is at a premium.

Lower your winter heating bill by staying warm while you work. Whether you work from home or at an office, the Mouse Hand Warmer computer mouse pad accessory will help reduce energy costs while keeping your hand covered by a warm blanket.

If you suffer from a cold mouse hand, the Mouse Hand Warmer will provide a comfortable experiece for your mouse hand. The materials used include cotton and fleece and are hand washable and dryable.

The Mouse Hand Warmer looks attractive on your desk top with a modern techie design using neutral gray, black and white colors, and there are no wires or cords to get tangled on your desk because it is an energy-free hand warmer.

Mouse Hand Warmer is an Earth Friendly Product

IGMproducts.com is a green website. The Mouse Hand Warmer product is earth friendly and uses no electricity to keep your mouse hand warm. Unlike other USB computer accessories, the Mouse Hand Warmer insulates body heat under a warm, fleece blanket making the product energy-efficient at a time when energy is at a premium.

Lower your winter heating bill by staying warm while you work. Whether you work from home or at an office, the Mouse Hand Warmer computer mouse pad accessory will help reduce energy costs while keeping your hand covered by a warm blanket.

If you suffer from a cold mouse hand, the Mouse Hand Warmer will provide a comfortable experiece for your mouse hand. The materials used include cotton and fleece and are hand washable and dryable.

The Mouse Hand Warmer looks attractive on your desk top with a modern techie design using neutral gray, black and white colors, and there are no wires or cords to get tangled on your desk because it is an energy-free hand warmer.

Auctions Junkie has an eye on new computer gadget mouse hand warmer

The Auction Junkie searches for what's hot right now! The Mouse Hand Warmer is a new computer gadget designed as a blanket to cover the computer geek's mousing hand. The mouse hand stays covered under a soft, warm, fleece baby-like blanket. The 12x12 inch size of the hand warmer makes it roomy enough for any size mouse and just about all mouse pads. The surface of the hand warmer is also capable of providing mouse movement without the use of a mousepad.

Read more about the Mouse Hand Warmer Press Release here.

Mouse Hand Warmer, Tech Ticker, and a lady with overworked gray cells!

A lady with overworked gray cells has got a simple yet marketable product that can keep your mouse hand warm in a chilly environment. The Mouse Hand Warmer is nothing but a small 12 X 12 inches blanket where you put your mouse and hand in it to feel the warmness inside.

It will cost $15 for a lazy guy suffering from cold mouse hand syndrome but it may cost cheaper if you’re a DIY guy like me.

Product Page
Press Release

Mouse Hand Warmer, Tech Ticker, and a lady with overworked gray cells!

A lady with overworked gray cells has got a simple yet marketable product that can keep your mouse hand warm in a chilly environment. The Mouse Hand Warmer is nothing but a small 12 X 12 inches blanket where you put your mouse and hand in it to feel the warmness inside.

It will cost $15 for a lazy guy suffering from cold mouse hand syndrome but it may cost cheaper if you’re a DIY guy like me.

Product Page
Press Release

Say Goodbye to Your Mouse… I Don’t Think So!

Mouse Hand Warmer - a blanket for your computer mouse.

from Onuralp Soner

Leading survey company Gartner’s expert Steve Prentice estimated that computer mouse will fall out of use in about 3 or 5 years as touch screens and face recognition systems will take its place. What an estimation isn’t it? I don’t really think that mouse can disappear in such a short time. At least the designers and game players will need the use of it as its really a very short period for developing the hardware and software needed for such movement sensitive systems.

Even if it is developed it can not be produced in big quantities so the price wouldn’t be something that every end user can afford. Also I remember one other estimation of this company about linux systems. If I remember correct they estimated that more than %70 of the operating systems would be linux in the year 2008. This mouse thing is more than an estimation I guess there is some kind of a business tactic behind it. Its really hard to understand and reason the big company games so I just don’t give any importance to such news anymore.

Mouse Hand Warmer Mouse Pad Computer Industry’s Newest Gadget

IGMproducts.com introduces a new product to the computer accessories market just in time for chilly weather. The Mouse Hand Warmer -- not available in any stores and only available through the manufacturer is brand new, a novel idea and provides a solution for the cold mouse hand syndrome.

Desert Hot Springs, CA., October 17, 2008. Does your computer mouse hand get cold? Do you sit long hours working at the computer with an exposed mouse hand? Does the winter chill or air-conditioned room make your mouse hand cold and fingertips numb? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’re not alone. There is a serious, cold mouse hand problem hitting the computer geek population, and IGMproducts.com has the cost-effective, energy-efficient solution.

"The Mouse Hand Warmer came about after spending over 12 years sitting at a computer working long, late hours with a very cold mouse hand," said Anna Miller, creator of the Mouse Hand Warmer.

The Mouse Hand Warmer was made to solve the cold mouse hand problem. Once the Mouse Hand Warmer blanket was developed and used, it proved to solve the problem, and IGM decided to manufacture and sell the item to the computer accessories market.

There’s no known medical term for the cold mouse hand condition. We asked Doctor Oz from the Oprah Winfrey Show by contacting him through Oprah.com. The Mouse Hand Warmer is an energy-efficient way to keep your mouse hand covered by a warm, fleece blanket. Just like crawling under the covers on a cold night, the Mouse Hand Warmer provides a warm, cozy blanket for your mouse hand. Simply slip your computer mouse and hand inside the Mouse Hand Warmer blanket with or without the use of a standard sized mouse pad, and your mouse hand is covered and kept warm as you work.

The Mouse Hand Warmer mouse pad is made in the USA and is the registered trademark and patented product of i-GlobalMall.com, Inc. The Mouse Hand Warmer uses no electricity, and there are no cords to plug in or get tangled on your desktop. It is available just in time for cold weather and when the cost of energy for heating is of key importance. Work long hours, keep warm and keep your energy bills lower by using a blanket to cover your exposed mouse hand.

The Mouse Hand Warmer has a non slip surface and is constructed of hand-washable fabrics. It is compatible with optical or USB connected mice of all sizes and shapes. It measures about 12 x 12 inches and has plenty of room inside for freedom of computer mouse hand movement. The only place you can obtain one of the techie gray, black and white mouse blankets is through the manufacturer who is currently seeking distributors of the product. To learn more about this novel computer geek accessory, visit http://www.IGMproducts.com.

We’ve tested the product, and it works! We’ve received positive feedback from computer users on Amazon.com, Etsy.com and eBay.com. Now, we’re ready to launch the product for resale. For more details, comments or to become a distributor of the Mouse Hand Warmer, please contact the manufacturer through their website at http://www.IGMproducts.com or by email at Webmaster (at) IGMproducts.com.

About IGMproducts.com
IGMproducts.com is the ecommerce site of i-GlobalMall.com, Inc. (IGM). Anna Miller is the President of IGM and has been creating, computing and selling online since the early 90’s. She is considered an Internet Pioneer and Ecommerce Entrepreneur. IGM's former ecommerce sites have been named Best of the Web by People StyleWatch Magazine and a top online resource by About.com. For more information, please visit IGMproducts.com.

How to Move your Mouse cursor without Mouse

Photo credits:Mayawolf

from Blur Not

I suppose many of us would have encountered a situation whereby you need to use your mouse but your mouse simply refuses to work. The well known Tab key may help sometimes but things will be much easier if you have the mouse. In this guide, you will get to know how to move your mouse cursor without the actual mouse. Read on.

Most of your would have chance upon the sticky key during your routine of using the computer. That is pretty common, considering the fact that it is activated when you press the SHIFT key 5 times. But have you heard of the MouseKeys?

Follow the given steps to activate the keyboard mouse:

First you would need an account with administrative rights.

To activate this feature, press Alt+Shift+NumLock keys. A small MouseKey box will appear as shown.

Alternatively, you can navigate via:
Start -> All program -> Accessories -> Accessibility -> Accessibility Wizard

Click on Settings button if you need to adjust the mouse cursor detail settings.

After which, you will be presented with a dialog box and now you can manage all your "mouse settings" to adjust the acceleration and speed. Now for the controls of your mouse pointer:

-> 1,2,3,4,6,7,8 and 9 keys are used to move the mouse cursor into different direction.
-> Key 5 is used as left click button.
-> Insert key used to hold down mouse button.
-> + Sign used to double click on any object.
-> Delete button used to release the mouse.
-> Click on NumLock button to disable this keyboard mouse feature.

That should solve your temporary need for a mouse. Pretty cool huh?

How to Move your Mouse cursor without Mouse

Photo credits:Mayawolf

from Blur Not

I suppose many of us would have encountered a situation whereby you need to use your mouse but your mouse simply refuses to work. The well known Tab key may help sometimes but things will be much easier if you have the mouse. In this guide, you will get to know how to move your mouse cursor without the actual mouse. Read on.

Most of your would have chance upon the sticky key during your routine of using the computer. That is pretty common, considering the fact that it is activated when you press the SHIFT key 5 times. But have you heard of the MouseKeys?

Follow the given steps to activate the keyboard mouse:

First you would need an account with administrative rights.

To activate this feature, press Alt+Shift+NumLock keys. A small MouseKey box will appear as shown.

Alternatively, you can navigate via:
Start -> All program -> Accessories -> Accessibility -> Accessibility Wizard

Click on Settings button if you need to adjust the mouse cursor detail settings.

After which, you will be presented with a dialog box and now you can manage all your "mouse settings" to adjust the acceleration and speed. Now for the controls of your mouse pointer:

-> 1,2,3,4,6,7,8 and 9 keys are used to move the mouse cursor into different direction.
-> Key 5 is used as left click button.
-> Insert key used to hold down mouse button.
-> + Sign used to double click on any object.
-> Delete button used to release the mouse.
-> Click on NumLock button to disable this keyboard mouse feature.

That should solve your temporary need for a mouse. Pretty cool huh?

Homemade mouse warmer & other mouse mods

from MakeZine

Keep your hand warm for those cold winter nights of web surfing with this do-it-yourself mouse warmer, just add 20 resistors and up the amp on your USB

Related: Mousey the Junkbot by Gareth Branwyn. With a few spare parts, you can turn an old computer mouse into an amusing robot.

Mouse Hand Warmer by IGMproducts.com.

Will Opra and Doctor Oz give us a solution for cold mouse hand?

Dear Oprah & Doctor Oz.... help us solve the cold mouse hand problem!

Searching for an answer to define the "cold mouse hand" syndrome, Oprah and Doctor Oz were sent an online letter. We haven't heard back from them, and if/when we do, you'll read about it here.

Here's what we wrote:

Many people may not be aware of a condition called "Cold Mouse Hand." It affects computer users who work using a computer mouse. It's not carpal tunnel and shouldn't be confused with other mouse hand medical conditions. I believe the "cold mouse hand" problem is a fairly new discovery.

I started using a computer in the early 90's, and I owned and operated an ecommerce site for over 12 years. My work required me to sit in front of a computer using the mouse. A/C offices, fans, drafts and chilly weather would cause my mouse hand to get so cold my finger tips would become numb. The only relief to the cold mouse hand was to stop working, and that was not an option. I tried pulling a sweater over my mouse hand and wear fingerless gloves to keep it warm and that didn't work. I bought computer gadgets that promised to keep the mouse hand warm, and they were either non-ergonomic, caused pain, or were too small.

In February 2007, after suffering from a cold mouse hand for many years, I decided to obtain a provisional patent for a "Mouse House Hand Warmer" to address and fix the problem. But, I was still too busy operating my business to do anything with the patent.

In May 2008, I sold my ecommerce site and decided to research the cold mouse hand problem to focus on a solution. I was surprised to discover the problem was experienced by many people.

In June 2008, I made a Mouse Hand Warmer using blanket fabric, tested the prototype, and it worked. The Mouse Hand Warmer was born! I don't suffer anymore from a cold mouse hand.

If Doctor Oz finds the mouse hand syndrome, not carpal tunnel, but the "cold mouse hand" problem, an interesting, new topic, please ask him to shed some light on this mysterious computer geeks' situation. If you look for little inventions to address new problems, I will participate by sharing the problem and the solution with your audience. I hope you find this story and it's solution unique and worthy of a discussion topic.

Can Oprah and Doctor Oz solve the cold mouse hand problem?

Dear Oprah & Doctor Oz.... help us solve the cold mouse hand problem!

Searching for an answer to define the "cold mouse hand" syndrome, Oprah and Doctor Oz were sent an online letter. We haven't heard back from them, and if/when we do, you'll read about it here.

Here's what we wrote:

Many people may not be aware of a condition called "Cold Mouse Hand." It affects computer users who work using a computer mouse. It's not carpal tunnel and shouldn't be confused with other mouse hand medical conditions. I believe the "cold mouse hand" problem is a fairly new discovery.

I started using a computer in the early 90's, and I owned and operated an ecommerce site for over 12 years. My work required me to sit in front of a computer using the mouse. A/C offices, fans, drafts and chilly weather would cause my mouse hand to get so cold my finger tips would become numb. The only relief to the cold mouse hand was to stop working, and that was not an option. I tried pulling a sweater over my mouse hand and wear fingerless gloves to keep it warm and that didn't work. I bought computer gadgets that promised to keep the mouse hand warm, and they were either non-ergonomic, caused pain, or were too small.

In February 2007, after suffering from a cold mouse hand for many years, I decided to obtain a provisional patent for a "Mouse House Hand Warmer" to address and fix the problem. But, I was still too busy operating my business to do anything with the patent.

In May 2008, I sold my ecommerce site and decided to research the cold mouse hand problem to focus on a solution. I was surprised to discover the problem was experienced by many people.

In June 2008, I made a Mouse Hand Warmer using blanket fabric, tested the prototype, and it worked. The Mouse Hand Warmer was born! I don't suffer anymore from a cold mouse hand.

If Doctor Oz finds the mouse hand syndrome, not carpal tunnel, but the "cold mouse hand" problem, an interesting, new topic, please ask him to shed some light on this mysterious computer geeks' situation. If you look for little inventions to address new problems, I will participate by sharing the problem and the solution with your audience. I hope you find this story and it's solution unique and worthy of a discussion topic.

Can Oprah and Doctor Oz solve the cold mouse hand problem?

Dear Oprah & Doctor Oz.... help us solve the cold mouse hand problem!

Searching for an answer to define the "cold mouse hand" syndrome, Oprah and Doctor Oz were sent an online letter. We haven't heard back from them, and if/when we do, you'll read about it here.

Here's what we wrote:

Many people may not be aware of a condition called "Cold Mouse Hand." It affects computer users who work using a computer mouse. It's not carpal tunnel and shouldn't be confused with other mouse hand medical conditions. I believe the "cold mouse hand" problem is a fairly new discovery.

I started using a computer in the early 90's, and I owned and operated an ecommerce site for over 12 years. My work required me to sit in front of a computer using the mouse. A/C offices, fans, drafts and chilly weather would cause my mouse hand to get so cold my finger tips would become numb. The only relief to the cold mouse hand was to stop working, and that was not an option. I tried pulling a sweater over my mouse hand and wear fingerless gloves to keep it warm and that didn't work. I bought computer gadgets that promised to keep the mouse hand warm, and they were either non-ergonomic, caused pain, or were too small.

In February 2007, after suffering from a cold mouse hand for many years, I decided to obtain a provisional patent for a "Mouse House Hand Warmer" to address and fix the problem. But, I was still too busy operating my business to do anything with the patent.

In May 2008, I sold my ecommerce site and decided to research the cold mouse hand problem to focus on a solution. I was surprised to discover the problem was experienced by many people.

In June 2008, I made a Mouse Hand Warmer using blanket fabric, tested the prototype, and it worked. The Mouse Hand Warmer was born! I don't suffer anymore from a cold mouse hand.

If Doctor Oz finds the mouse hand syndrome, not carpal tunnel, but the "cold mouse hand" problem, an interesting, new topic, please ask him to shed some light on this mysterious computer geeks' situation. If you look for little inventions to address new problems, I will participate by sharing the problem and the solution with your audience. I hope you find this story and it's solution unique and worthy of a discussion topic.

Mouse-Related Pain - Computer Mouse Gadget

Proper position of hand over mouse when operating the computer mouse.

from MFL Occupational Health Center

Recently, injuries from using a computer mouse are getting a lot of attention. This is because we use the mouse for most computer software and often put the mouse in a poor location. The typical mouse-related injury occurs when we reach up and out to use the mouse on the desktop.

Using a Mouse Hand Warmer blanket covers the exposed hand keeping it warm.

Some Signs of a Mouse-Related Injury

Pain in the fingers and hand. Sometimes you can lose individual finger control.

Pain in the pinkie side of the hand. The pain may occur along the outside of the forearm to the inside of the elbow.

Pain in the palm and wrist. This may be the start of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Pain around the wrist. Sometimes it feels like a "bracelet of pain."

Pain in the outside of the elbow and forearm muscles. This is sometimes called "Tennis Elbow," whether or not playing tennis is the cause.

Pain at the top of the shoulder and close to the neck. The pain may also occur between the shoulder blades.

Numbness and tingling may occur along with the pain.

Why Using a Mouse Can Cause Pain
Reaching up and out for the mouse often causes the pain. This reach uses the strong muscles of the back, shoulders and arms to hold your arm out. Eventually these muscles can get tired and sore. While the strong muscles hold your arm out, your smaller and weaker forearm and hand muscles move the mouse. These smaller muscles already work a lot when typing. When we add mousing, they too can get very tired and sore.


How to Prevent Mouse-Related Pain
Purchase a large keyboard tray (26 - 30 inches) that is long enough to hold a mouse and keyboard. If there is not enough room to use a large keyboard tray, you can place the keyboard and mouse on the desktop and raise your chair so that you can type comfortably. You may need to raise the monitor too.


Keep your mouse clean. A clean mouse is easier to use because it reduces the length of time you need to grasp and lift the mouse. Find out how to clean your mouse.


Use a mouse that fits your hand. This helps to keep your hand and fingers relaxed. A mouse comes in many shapes and sizes, and are available in left-handed and right-handed models.


Try your mouse before you buy. Comfort and function are very important considerations for a mouse. When buying any important piece of equipment, you should always give it a test run to make sure it is right for you.

Rest your hand when you are not using the mouse. By letting go of the mouse and resting your hand, you can give your muscles a break.

Keep your hand and wrist straight when using the mouse. Move your mouse with your forearm and shoulder muscles. This gives your smaller hand muscles a break. Do not rest your wrist on the table or tray and operate the mouse like a windshield wiper.

Learn alternative keyboard commands. Keying gives your mouse hand a break.

Nights are getting chilly: Keep your hands warm

We sit and work for long hours at the computer every day. There's really no relief in sight. Most of us have jobs or hobbies that keep us glued to the screen with our hand on the mouse. We've battled with avoiding illness and pain associated with the computer mouse by using an ergonomic mouse and gel mouse pads. Yet, one of the most obvious items we seem to neglect is the exposed mouse hand that gets cold during certain temperature conditions.

Some people call the Mouse Hand condition "mouse hand." Others refer to cold mouse hand as a result of poor circulation. Whether it's one or the other, the solution is keeping the mouse hand warm and covered by a warm Mouse Hand Warmer.

For more details about how to keep your mouse hand covered and warm, click here.