How To Hold a Computer Mouse

The way you use your computer mouse can negatively affect your hand and wrist in the long run. So, if you’re looking for the most ergonomic and comfortable way to hold your mouse, you’ve come to the right place.

To make things easier for you, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to walk you through the step-by-step process of how to hold a computer mouse. We will also discuss various types of mouse-holding positions later in the guide. 

Holding a Computer Mouse 

If you are wondering how to hold a computer mouse, our 7 step-by-step methods will help you do this without wasting your time.

Method #1: Placing the Mouse on a Smooth Surface

We all know how frustrating it is to hold and use a computer mouse that doesn’t work well. Whether it’s the cursor moving too fast or too slow, not being able to click on the right thing, or the mouse itself feeling stiff and uncomfortable, it can make using your PC a real pain.

To avoid this, place the mouse on a smooth surface while holding it, preferably on a mousepad. This can help it move more smoothly and with less resistance. 

If the mouse isn’t on a mousepad, you might have problems like it not scrolling smoothly.

Method #2: Avoiding Gripping Your Mouse Too Tightly

If you find yourself holding your mouse too tightly, you can do a few things to help improve this scenario.  

First, make sure you have a good hold on your mouse. A death grip is when you grip so tightly that your hand starts to cramp up, resulting in serious pain afterward, so try to avoid doing this at all costs. 

Instead, try griping your mouse loosely, using just enough pressure to keep it from slipping out of your hand.

Secondly, take a break from using your mouse every so often. Get up, walk around for a few minutes, or stretch your hand and fingers. This will help to keep you from getting too tense.

Lastly, be sure to rest not only your fingers on the mouse but your entire palm as well. Your hand should feel weightless and supported. Also, ensure you’re not subconsciously tensing your pinky or thumb to keep them from slipping off the mouse.

Method #3: Positioning the Mouse Within Reach

Ensure you’re not stretching too far while holding and using the mouse. In particular, keep your operating arm and elbow within 90-100 degrees while using your PC, with the mouse positioned close to the keyboard. You can also try using a mouse and keyboard tray. 

Overextending can result in injuries and stress in your shoulder and arm.

Method #4: Adjusting Computer Settings

Adjusting your computer’s mouse settings can help you avoid unnecessary motions and hold it correctly. To do so, click the search icon on your PC. Type “Settings” in the search bar and hit Enter. Now, click “Devices” and select “Mouse” from the left menu.

Drag the handle below the “Cursor Speed” to adjust the mouse speed on your PC.

Method #5: Avoiding Unnecessary Windshield Motion

Try avoiding unnecessary ulnar and radial deviation of your wrist (windshield motion) while holding a mouse by following these tips.

• Take frequent breaks and do hand/wrist exercises daily to avoid constraints.
• Learn to control the mouse by moving your elbow and keeping your wrist relatively still.
• Choose a trackball mouse that doesn’t require the wrist during operation.

Method #6: Picking the Right Size Mouse

Picking up the right size mouse can help you hold it properly while using it and avoid any tension in your hand or wrist muscles. 

Therefore, try using a computer mouse that is not too small or too large. Also, ensure it is not touching your wrist and that your palm is fully covered when placed on the mouse.

Method #7: Using Proper Mouse Posture

The most effective way to hold a computer mouse is to keep your wrist and forearm off the desk and use your entire arm to move it. 

Such an optimized mouse position can diminish your likelihood of experiencing pain or sustaining an injury and developing carpel tunnel syndrome.

The 3 Main Types of Mouse Grips/Holding Positions

The three main ways in which you can hold your mouse are as follows.

• Palm Grip: The palm grip is the most supported grip type, as your hand can relax and rest on the mouse, providing increased comfort.
• Claw Grip: The claw grip is less common, but it’s becoming more popular for gaming and other high-intensity activities. 
• Finger Grip: The fingertip grip, common among users with large hands, is when the fingers touch the mouse instead of the palm. This is in contrast to the other two grips.

Summary 

In this extensive article, we’ve discussed how to hold a computer mouse correctly. We’ve also discussed the main type of mouse grip positions.  

Hopefully, this article helped resolve your query, and you can now use a computer mouse correctly to avoid any injuries to your hand.

Frequently Asked Questions