Cheapest ergonomics solutions are the best, apparently

[mattbell]

I'm one of those people who needs a good desk setup where the keyboard is at exactly the right height or my wrists get unhappy very fast.

As it turns out, the best ergonomics solution I've ever found for typing is also the cheapest.  Because I couldn't get my adjustable desk out of my storage locker without a moving truck, I improvised a very simple solution.  I got a 18"x30" sheet of 1/8" smooth fiberboard and then used double-sided tape to secure the keyboard, mouse cord, and mouse pad to it.  Then I put the fiberboard on my lap.  

Because the fiberboard and keyboard are both very thin, I can let my shoulders rest and hang my upper arms straight down with my lower arms horizontal, something I was not able to do before.  It turns out that the extra two inches I've gained by using this thin board instead of a desk is enough to let my shoulders be totally at rest instead of having upward pressure on them.  My back, shoulders, and wrists are all remarkably happy.

Now I just have to refine this so that I don't have to put down the board every time I get up to do something.  :-)

Comments

[klrmn.livejournal.com]

my way includes jacking my chair up to full height, similarly lifting my monitor, and putting a cardboard box under my feet.

[proctologiste.livejournal.com]

This is what I use: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40143403

Cheap ($17.99) and looks nice. Height adjustable, and has a couple of tilt steps. It also lets me not put anything on my legs.

Since it has only a single stalk, that can usually go between my knees.

My monitor is then attached to a wall with an Ergotron arm.

[nasu-dengaku.livejournal.com]

Cool. That should do the trick. It's thin, doesn't block my knees, AND it tilts.