The mouse arm can be divided into different categories based on affected structures and symptoms:

1. Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons, often affecting the hand and finger tendons.

2. Myofascial complaints: Pain and tension in the muscles, especially in the forearm and shoulder.

3. Nerve compression syndromes: Complaints such as carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by pressure on nerves in the wrist.

4. Chronic mouse arm: Long-lasting complaints associated with movement restrictions and persistent pain.

The main causes of mouse arm can be divided into several categories:

- Repeated movements:

- Frequent and monotonous movements, such as repeated clicking or scrolling with the computer mouse.

- Ergonomic misalignments:

- Inappropriate workstations with poor sitting posture or incorrectly adjusted mouse and keyboard.

- Overuse:

- Working for extended periods without breaks, leading to muscle and tendon overload.

- Stress and tension:

- Psychological stress can promote muscle tension and incorrect posture.

- Lack of movement:

- A lack of physical activity increases susceptibility to muscular complaints.

The symptoms of a mouse arm often develop gradually and worsen with continued strain:

- **Pain:** Stabbing, burning, or pulling pain that can radiate from the hand to the arm or shoulder.

- **Movement restrictions:** Reduced mobility of the hand or arm, especially during gripping or twisting movements.

- **Numbness and tingling:** Sensory disturbances in the hand or fingers, often due to nerve compression.

- **Muscle weakness:** Difficulty performing everyday tasks such as holding a glass or writing.

- **Tension:** Hardened muscles in the neck, shoulder, and arm area.

- **Fatigue:** Rapid exhaustion during repetitive movements.

The diagnosis is made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and, if necessary, additional tests:

Medical history:

The doctor inquires about typical symptoms, work habits, and ergonomic conditions at the workplace.

Physical examination:

Checking for muscle tension, movement restrictions, and tenderness.

Imaging techniques:

Ultrasound: Examination of tendonitis or soft tissue damage.

MRI: Visualization of nerve compressions or muscular changes.

Electroneurography (ENG): Measurement of nerve conduction velocity in suspected nerve compression syndromes.

Conservative Therapy

Most cases of mouse arm can be treated with non-operative measures:

• Physiotherapy:
  • Targeted exercises for stretching and strengthening the affected muscles.
• Ergonomic Adjustments:
  • Optimization of the workplace, e.g., with height-adjustable desks and ergonomic mice.
• Medication Therapy:
  • NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation.
• Cold Therapy:
  • Application of cold packs to reduce swelling and pain.
• Stress Management:
  • Relaxation techniques such as yoga or progressive muscle relaxation to reduce tension.

Operative Therapy

In severe cases or with persistent symptoms, surgical intervention may be necessary:

• Carpal Tunnel Release:
  • Surgical relief of the nerve canal in carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Tendon Release:
  • Removal of inflamed tissue to restore mobility.

To prevent a mouse arm, the following measures are recommended:

1. Ergonomic workplace design: Adjusting chair, desk, mouse, and keyboard for optimal posture.
2. Regular breaks: Taking short breaks every 30 minutes to reduce strain.
3. Stretching exercises: Daily stretching of the forearm and shoulder muscles.
4. Use of ergonomic aids: Using special mice or keyboards to relieve the wrists.
5. Stress reduction: Promoting relaxation through techniques such as breathing exercises or meditation.