subject: Ergonomic Pens [print this page] Ergonomics is the science of designing things we use and interact with everyday so that they are optimized for better human well-being and overall better performance. Ergonomic design also aims to prevent what is referred to as repetitive strain injuries. Injuries our bodies can suffer when doing repetitive tasks in ways that are not natural to the way our bodies move and perform.
Ergonomic pens have become increasingly more popular as this awareness of how our bodies interact with the technology has increased over the years. Even though ergonomics is not new to us, the Ancient Greeks first applied ergonomic design, aiming to optimize their well-being and overall performance. Writing strain is a very common problem that is associated with the traditional pen. This strain is usually caused by excess pressure on the thumb and fingers, as our hands tend to slip while writing which in turn causes us to grip the pen even harder. This continual strain can lead to painful cramps, which makes writing difficult and unpleasant.
The main aim of ergonomic pens is to reduce this excessive pressure that we apply when holding and writing with the pen. The most simple solution to this problem is to have a grip on the pen that stops the hand from slipping, making writing a lot more comfortable. These grips usually are made from non-slip rubber.
More advanced ergonomic pen designs have changed the whole shape of the pen. Some look very futuristic in design, like the Yoropen for example that has a 'kink' in the pen, just below the grip, which makes your writing easier to see and it also supports the weight of the hand better.
If the principles of ergonomic design are followed, then an ergonomic pen can only be more beneficial and helpful to the everyday writer.
