Wrist rest

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Wrist rests, also called palm rests or wrist supports, are pads placed on a keyboard or desk to support the wrists while you type. They come in memory foam, gel, leather, or wood. Memory foam is common and holds its shape longer, while gel stays cooler and returns to shape quickly. Some keyboards include a wrist rest.

People have mixed opinions about their ergonomic benefits. The main advantage is more comfort during long typing sessions and less tension in the neck, shoulders, and arms. But resting the wrists can push the joints into an awkward angle or keep the wrist from moving, which may cause strain or tendon problems. Prolonged contact with the rest could be linked to carpal tunnel syndrome or tenosynovitis. Resting the wrists while typing may also limit natural wrist movement and cause issues.

OSHA tips:
- Keep the hands elevated above the rest while typing.
- When not typing, the rest should touch the palm or heel of the hand, not the wrist.
- The rest’s slope and height should match the front of the keyboard.
- Choose a soft rest at least 3.8 cm (1.5 inches) deep.

Research on wrist rests is limited and sometimes contradictory. A 2004 review found mixed results. Some studies show reduced strain, others show more. A 2018 study with 25 participants found rests reduced fatigue in the biceps brachii but not in the upper trapezius.