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What are Wrist Rest and Palm Rest?
Both wrist rest and palm rest are accessories designed to provide support and comfort to your hands and wrists while using a computer keyboard. Although they are often used interchangeably, they serve slightly different purposes and target different areas of the hand.
A wrist rest is a cushioned pad that is placed in front of a keyboard to support the wrists. It is usually made of materials such as foam, gel, or memory foam. The primary function of a wrist rest is to keep the wrists elevated and in a neutral position while typing. It helps to alleviate strain on the wrists and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
On the other hand, a palm rest is a cushioned pad that is attached or integrated into the keyboard itself. Palm rests are usually larger than wrist rests, covering a larger area that includes the palm of the hand and the base of the fingers. Its purpose is to provide support not only to the wrists but also to the palms and hands while resting between typing sessions. The palm rest provides a soft surface for the palms to rest on, reducing pressure on the nerves and tendons in the hand.
The Difference and Role of Wrist Rest and Palm Rest
While both wrist rests and palm rests aim to improve comfort and reduce strain during typing, they differ in their design, position, and targeted areas.
The wrist rest is placed in front of the keyboard and targets primarily the wrists. It helps to keep the wrists in a more neutral and elevated position, which can reduce the strain on the tendons and muscles in the wrists. The wrist rest acts as a cushion that prevents the wrists from resting directly on a hard surface, such as the edge of a desk. It allows for a more natural alignment of the hand, wrist, and forearm, which can improve typing efficiency and decrease the risk of developing wrist-related injuries.
On the other hand, the palm rest is integrated into the keyboard and covers a larger area, including the palms and the base of the fingers. Its purpose is to provide support to the entire hand and help maintain a relaxed hand and wrist position. The palm rest allows the hands to rest comfortably while not actively typing, reducing strain on the muscles and tendons in the hands and fingers. It provides a soft surface that follows the natural contours of the hands, thus minimizing pressure points and enhancing overall comfort.
In summary, the wrist rest primarily targets the wrists, providing support and elevation, while the palm rest targets the entire hand, including the palms and fingers, to provide a more holistic hand support and improve overall comfort during prolonged typing sessions.
Remember, using a wrist rest or palm rest is a matter of personal preference. It’s important to experiment and find the right combination of accessories and ergonomic practices that work best for your individual needs.
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