Development of a Low-Cost Ergonomic Armrest

Computer operators need special armrests to reduce musculoskeletal disorders related to holding the arms, bending the wrists, and adopting other work postures of the hand and arm. It is expensive to replace the existing conventional fixed/no-armrest chairs with ergonomic chairs that have special armrests. This article presents a low-cost and ergonomic solution: a portable, adjustable armrest that can be attached to a chair. The armrest enables vertical (height) adjustment and horizontal movement (i.e., length, width, and direction/rotation movements) to suit various arm positions for keying and mousing tasks. Usability tests show user acceptance and improvements in forearm, hand, and wrist postures.

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