Over the years, we’ve profiled a lot of ergonomic computer mice here on Gizmag. They’ve all taken the approach of redesigning the mouse itself to alleviate computer-related repetitive strain injuries (RSI’s). The Ergoroller, however, looks to a redesign of the wrist support to achieve the same ends. Like a conventional wrist support, it provides a place to rest your mousing arm, so you’re not constantly straining to hold it in position. Unlike one, however, it contains two rows of steel bearings, that massage your tendons and ligaments as you move your hand.
Utah-based electrical designer Jason Perkins invented the Ergoroller, and tells us he has been researching and developing the device for the past decade. While it’s marketed primarily for use in computing, Perkins says it can also be used therapeutically, for the relief of pain already present due to RSI’s. It is presently in use at the University of Utah Hospital, and Utah’s Hill Air Force Base has expressed an interest in the product. Aircraft mechanics have also been using it, to break up their tool-usage routines.
Perkins claims that the Ergoroller promotes blood flow through the carpal tunnel, and that it promotes proper wrist alignment. If you’ve already had carpal tunnel surgery, he says, it can help break up the internal scar tissue, and help restore your range of motion. It can also be used on the feet, or anywhere else that needs de-stressing.
The steel bearings pop out for cleaning.
The Ergoroller costs $US24.95.