Which US-layout KB to choose to combat RSI?

[xchaotic]

Hi everyone.

It's my first post, so hi everyone.

I was brought here by google as I'm yet another soul searching for a decent keyboard.
I'm a bit overwhelmed with the plethora of models discussed here...
I don't think I need a mechanical one, I actually like the 'notebooky' ones like diNovo.
My main concern nowadays is that I have a growing pain in my wrist and I can't really quit my coding job.
So what are my best bets to try a keyboard that combats RSI and is easily available in Europe?

[jeyoung]

So what are my best bets to try a keyboard that combats RSI and is easily available in Europe?

No such magical keyboard, I'm afraid. But, WorkRave (http://workrave.org) is a very nice utility to remind you to take breaks from typing. That and listening to your body when it is in pain.

[keyb_gr]

There is no keyboard that will magically make your RSI go away. First you'll need to analyze what actually causes it, and then do something about that. Some people have gotten rid of their pain after changing the - mouse.

Look at your sitting posture - is it in line with ergonomic recommendations? Are the wrists bent upwards or outwards while typing? Or on the mouse? Are you alternating between mouse and keyboard a lot? Which hand do you use the mouse with? Do you have a proper touch-typing technique? [strike]Which keyboard layout do you use?[/strike] (EDIT: It pays to read the thread title, huh?)

Certainly it's not a bad idea to pick up a keyboard with ergo-friendly switches (like MX blues or browns). Same goes for switching to a more ergonomic keyboard layout (Colemak, Neo, whatever), but of course that's a big step.

Where in Europe would you be located?

[ichirichi]

Is the problem in your wrist? Both wrists? In your fingers? All fingers? In your arm ? Both arms? In your neck?!

The equipment may not be able to help you, and unless you can determine what is causing the actual problem, new equipment may do more harm than good!

First thing is, go see a Doctor.

Listen to what he/she says, and then determine whether changing your keyboard (or even mouse) is really going to help.  I tried an ergonimic keyboard for a short period asI had some major wrist ache, turns out I was just watching too much porn.. Nah, seriously, it was due to how I use my mouse.  For me, the solution was to use a wrist rest when using mouse.

[itlnstln]

You may want to try a new mouse.  I was using "ergonomic" keyboards to combat RSI for years, and the real culprit was the mouse.  I switched to a more ergonomic mouse (MS Wireless Natural Laser Mouse 6000), and that solved all my problems.  While I use regular keyboards, I sit pretty far back, and that keeps my wrists straight.

[hoggy]

Have a look at autohotkey - you should be able to use that to reduce your typing.

Once you've seen the doctor, talk to your boss.  If she/he isn't happy with you taking breaks then offer to run errands and use photocopier - find excuses to get away from the computer (making tea is great for this).  

Consider Jeyoung's advice - get workrave.

Think more before coding - if you hit on the right idea first you can save thousands of keystrokes a day.

Got a large project on the go?  Get some help with it now - stress really won't help.

Have a look at the Kinesis Advantage - it's pricey, but I love mine.

Oh, and chill out, relax, have fun.  Don't give up any hobbies or sports.

[didjamatic]

Cherry Brown MX.