Effect of keyboard keyswitch design on hand pain

This randomized clinical trial evaluated the effects of Keyboard keyswitch design on computer users with hand paresthesias, Twenty computer users were matched and randomly assigned to Keyboard A (n = 10) or B (n = 10;, The ke yboards were of conventional layout and differed in keyswitch design, Vario us outcome measures were assessed during the 12 weeks of use. Subjects assi gned Keyboard A experienced a decrease in hand pain between weeks 6 and 12 when compared with Keyboard B subjects (P = 0.05) and demonstrated an impro vement in, the Phalen test time (right hand, P = 0, 006; left hand, P = 0.0 06). Keyboard assignment had no significant effect on change in hand functi on or median nerve latency. We conclude that use of Keyboard A for 12 weeks led to a reduction in hand;pain and an improved physical examination findi ng when compared with keyboard B, There was no corresponding improvement in hand function, or median nerve latency.