Wrist Rest

A wrist rest is a padded support placed in front of a keyboard or mouse designed to maintain a neutral wrist position during use and provide cushioning during pauses between typing sessions. The primary function of a wrist rest is not to support the wrists while actively typing, a common misconception, but rather to provide a comfortable resting surface for the palms of the hands between typing bursts. When used correctly, a wrist rest helps maintain the neutral, slightly elevated wrist position that prevents the compression of the carpal tunnel and the hyperextension that contributes to repetitive strain injuries. Wrist rests are available in a wide range of materials, each offering different benefits. Memory foam conforms to the hand's shape and distributes pressure evenly, gel-filled rests provide cool cushioning and maintain their shape over time, and leather-covered rests add a premium feel to the desk setup. The keyboard wrist rest typically spans the full width of the keyboard, while the mouse wrist rest is a smaller, circular or rectangular pad positioned beneath the mousing hand. For maximum ergonomic benefit, the wrist rest should be at the same height as the front edge of the keyboard, creating a continuous, level surface that the hands can glide across naturally.