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Ergonomic Product Categories > Forearm Supports          
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Forearm Supports

What are Forearm Supports?

A Forearm Support is a padded area which can be used to rest the forearms while working at a computer.  There are two general types of Forearm Supports, static and dynamic.  Static Forearm Supports tend to have a larger convex surface area which allow them to provide support wherever the individual moves their arms from keyboard to mouse (or other tasks at the workstation).  They tend to be formed around the individual in a semicircle with a cutout for the body, providing support for the front 180 degrees of the individual.  Dynamic Forearm Supports, while being much smaller will 'cup' the forearms to allow the mechanism to automatically move in conjunction with the arms of the individual, affording them a wide range of supported movement.

What are the Ergonomic Benefits of a Forearm Support?

The purpose behind Forearm Supports is to remove the burden of the weight of the arms from the upper back of the individual (especially individuals with a weak shoulder girdle or trapezius muscles), and the static load in the neck and shoulder area.

What are Potential Concerns when Considering a Forearm Support?

It is critical that the Forearm Support is at the optimal height.  If it is even slightly too high, the upper arm will be pushed upwards, forcing the shoulders into a 'hunched' position.  If it is too low, then the user may slump or slouch in an effort to get the support they seek.  Unfortunately, most users through the day change their overall seating or standing posture, which makes the 'ideal' position a potentially moving target.

In order to support the weight of the arms, the Forearm Support must be securely attached to a solid surface which itself is strong enough to handle the weight of the arms, and the torque force of the mechanism adhering the support to the surface.  This means that in the vast majority of cases these supports cannot be attached to Keyboard Arms and the thin trays that are usually mounted upon them.

Over time some individuals find that their muscle strength and mass is affected, and actually develop pain when reaching or extending their arms without the aid of a Forearm Support.

For What Types of Tasks / Users are Forearm Supports Suitable? 

Individuals who experience pain or strain in the neck, shoulders and upper back (trapezius and rhomboids) may experience some relief of these symptoms with a Forearm Support. 

What Physical Injuries or Conditions Typically Benefit from Forearm Supports?

As they will support the arms when extended, they typically benefit individuals with Lateral Epicondylitis and Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.

 

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Last edited December 9th, 2013

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