7 best desktop essentials to avoid carpal tunnel syndrome, in UAE, for 2024

Dr Ruhil Badiani, a physician from Cornerstone Clinic, Dubai, explains it simply: "It's a condition that occurs when there is pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, which controls sensations in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. This pressure usually results from repetitive motions, like typing, using a mouse, or any activity that requires long periods of wrist flexion or extension."

So, if you're tired of the aches, and just want to work without wincing, we’ve got your back (and wrists!). Enter the world of ergonomic desktop essentials — your new allies. And no, we're not talking about old keyboard trays. Think high-tech keyboards, anti-fatigue mats that make standing feel like a spa day, and mice that hug your hand like a glove.

Our curated picks are not just wrist-friendly — they’ll transform your workspace and make productivity feel like a breeze. Let’s dive in and find out how to stay comfy, productive, and pain-free. Don’t forget to shop with Prime membership, for free, fast delivery.

1. Best Keyboard: Logitech Ergo K860 Wireless Ergonomic Keyboard 

Pros

Cons

If you're someone who spends hours at your desk, you know the risks that come with prolonged typing: Fatigue, discomfort, and the dreaded carpal tunnel syndrome. Don't worry — this smartly designed keyboard is here to help you conquer those aches and type like a pro without the pain. One of the standout features of the Ergo K860 is its split keyboard layout. Traditional keyboards tend to force your wrists into awkward angles, which can lead to repetitive strain. But with the K860, Logitech has designed a layout that allows your hands to rest in a more natural position — just like a perfect handshake. The split design allows you to position your hands and wrists comfortably, whether you're typing emails, coding, or writing your next great novel. This keyboard encourages a more relaxed typing posture by dividing the keyboard into two distinct sections. Each section is slightly angled, allowing for a more natural wrist alignment. By reducing the need to twist your wrists, the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome is significantly abated. It’s also equipped with a cushioned palm rest to further enhance comfort. This memory foam cushion supports your palms as you type, reducing pressure and providing extra cushioning where you need it most. Whether you're a fast typist or prefer a more relaxed pace, this added comfort ensures that your wrists are cradled, helping you maintain a neutral position without strain. However, it may be difficult to view the keys in low-light conditions, since the keyboard is not backlit.

Bonus: Buy with zero per cent installments and pay Dh46.65 for 12 months with select banks.

Warranty: Amazon offers one-year extended warranty of Dh35 and two-year extended warranty of Dh57. 

2. Best Mouse: UGreen Vertical Wireless Mouse

Pros

Cons

At first glance, the vertical design may look a bit unconventional — but going by the glowing reviews, it works. The angle of the mouse encourages your hand to rest in a more relaxed position, reducing wrist strain and allowing for a smoother, more comfortable experience. Whether you're working on a big project, gaming, or just scrolling through social media, you’ll notice the difference in how effortlessly your hand glides across the mouse. Moreover, unlike the usual mouse, which can strain your wrist over time, this device promotes a neutral hand position, keeping your wrist in a more natural 'handshake' posture. This simple, yet effective shift helps eliminate the pressure and discomfort that can lead to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, making it an absolute must-have for anyone who spends hours clicking away. On the downside, it does take some getting used to.

Warranty: Amazon offers one-year extended warranty of Dh12 and two-year extended warranty of Dh19.

3. Best Mouse Pad: Gimars Keyboard Wrist Rest Mouse Pad

Whether you’re typing up your next masterpiece or getting lost in a never-ending stream of emails, the discomfort can add up. But don’t worry, the Gimars Keyboard Wrist Rest Mouse Pad is here to save the day. With a soft memory foam cushion, this combo gives your wrists the comfort they crave while keeping your hands in a neutral position. The keyboard wrist rest supports your palms and keeps them raised, preventing the pressure that causes discomfort. The mouse pad, on the other hand, has a perfect amount of smooth surface friction to let your mouse glide effortlessly, while also providing wrist support. It’s like having your very own ergonomic workstation without the expensive price tag. The non-slip rubber base keeps everything in place, no matter how much you type, click, or scroll. It’s designed to stay put, so you won’t have to constantly adjust it during your sessions. Our final word? It’s comfy, stylish, and built to last — making it the perfect addition to any desk set-up. Whether you’re typing, gaming, or working, this wrist rest will keep you supported so you can focus on what matters most: getting things done without the wrist pain.

4. Best Laptop Stand: Nulaxy Telescopic Laptop Stand

Your desk deserves an upgrade, and so do your wrists and neck. With its telescopic height adjustability, this stand lets you effortlessly raise or lower your laptop to the perfect level. Want it higher for better posture during a meeting? Done. Want it lower when you’re lounging with a movie? Easy. It’s like having a personal elevator for your laptop that ensures your neck stays relaxed and your screen stays eye-level. Moreover, it's made from premium aluminum alloy, it’s built like a tank, so you won’t need to worry about your laptop sliding or wobbling mid-project. So, whether you’re writing out emails, deep in a Zoom meeting, or getting in those gaming hours, the Nulaxy Telescopic Laptop Stand will keep you comfortable and supported. It’s like giving your laptop a throne to sit on, but better.

Warranty: Amazon offers one-year extended warranty of Dh18 and two-year extended warranty of Dh29. 

5. Best Chair: Herman Miller Aeron Chair 

Pros

Cons

The Aeron Chair comes with fully adjustable armrests that can move up, down, forward, and backward to support your arms comfortably and at just the right height. This adjustability helps you position your arms so they’re not reaching too high or sinking too low, preventing the wrists from bending awkwardly — a major factor in carpal tunnel syndrome. The ideal set-up helps keep your forearms and wrists aligned in a neutral, straight position, reducing pressure on the median nerve in your wrist. We’re talking adjustable armrests that pivot, tilt tension, recline lock, and seat angle adjustments — so you can find your perfect posture no matter how you sit. The Aeron Chair is built to adapt to your unique sitting style, whether you’re upright in a video call, reclining in deep focus, or somewhere in between. Its design encourages you to rest your elbows at a comfortable, relaxed height. When your elbows are well-supported, the tension on your forearms and wrists is reduced, allowing you to work for longer periods without discomfort or added strain on your wrists. One of the most notable features of the Aeron is the PostureFit SL support. Forget typical lumbar support — is lumbar’s more sophisticated sibling. The PostureFit SL system offers individualised spinal support, thanks to two flexible pads that support your lower back.

Bonus: Buy with zero per cent installments and pay Dh468.27 for 12 months with select banks.

Warranty: Amazon offers one-year extended warranty of Dh525. 

6. Best Mat: Fezibo Standing Desk Anti Fatigue Mat

Standing desks are a game-changer for health and productivity, but anyone who’s stood for hours at work knows that comfort can quickly fade. That’s where the Fezibo Standing Desk Anti-Fatigue Mat comes in. Designed with a unique blend of cushion and active design elements, this mat reduces the typical fatigue of standing while encouraging micro-movements to keep you engaged. But the benefits don’t stop there. By providing a soft, supportive surface, the mat promotes a balanced stance, reducing the tendency to lean on your desk. This improved weight distribution means your posture naturally aligns, minimising slouching or strain on your wrists when typing or using a mouse. In addition to supporting posture, the mat’s dynamic surface encourages subtle shifts in weight and movement in the legs and feet. These micro-movements extend to the upper body, promoting circulation that reaches the arms and wrists, reducing the strain of repetitive wrist movements associated with typing. Perhaps most importantly, standing comfortably with the Fezibo mat means you’re less likely to lean heavily on desks or armrests — a habit that can lead to wrist compression. This reduced desk-pressure translates to less stress on the wrist joints, ultimately helping to lower the risk of carpal tunnel issues.

Bonus: Buy with zero per cent installments and pay Dh42.83 for 12 months with select banks

7. Best Keyboard Tray: Uncaged Ergonomics KT1 Keyboard Tray 

The Uncaged Ergonomics KT1 Keyboard Tray is here to elevate your work experience (literally and figuratively) with its unique, under-desk design that brings comfort, flexibility, and style to any workspace. The KT1 isn’t just your average keyboard tray — it’s an ergonomic upgrade that makes typing smooth, adjustable, and more productive.   The KT1 lets you adjust both the height and angle of the keyboard tray, so you can achieve a position that keeps your wrists straight rather than bent. Maintaining this neutral wrist position reduces strain on the median nerve, which is key to avoiding carpal tunnel issues. By keeping the keyboard at an optimal height under the desk, the tray minimises the need to rest your wrists directly on the desk surface. This reduces direct pressure on the wrist joint, which is one of the main contributors to carpal tunnel syndrome. With a properly aligned keyboard and mouse set-up, your shoulders and forearms are positioned more naturally, leading to less upper body tension. This also prevents compensatory wrist strain that can exacerbate carpal tunnel symptoms over time.

How to protect yourself against carpal tunnel syndrome

Protecting yourself against carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is all about maintaining healthy habits, improving your workspace setup, and taking breaks. Here are some practical steps to reduce the risk, explained by Dr Badiani:

Maintain proper ergonomics

Keyboard and mouse positioning: Keep your keyboard at elbow height and your wrists in a neutral, straight position. Avoid bending your wrists up or down when typing.

Desk set-up: Your desk should allow you to sit with your feet flat on the ground, your knees at a 90-degree angle, and your forearms parallel to the floor. Your wrists should be straight while typing or using the mouse.

Chair adjustments: Make sure your chair provides good support for your back and arms. Your arms should rest comfortably at your sides with elbows at about 90 degrees.

Take regular breaks

The 20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away to give your eyes a rest, and shake out your hands and wrists.

Stretch your hands and wrists: Regularly stretch and rotate your wrists to release tension and prevent strain from building up.

Use ergonomic tools

Ergonomic keyboards and mice: These are designed to keep your hands in a natural, relaxed position and reduce strain. Look for split keyboards, adjustable mouse platforms, or vertical mice.

Wrist rests: Invest in wrist rests for your keyboard and mouse to keep your wrists supported and aligned properly while typing or clicking.

Standing desks or adjustable stands: If possible, alternate between sitting and standing to reduce pressure on your wrists. A standing desk with an anti-fatigue mat can make a big difference.

Strengthen your wrists and hands

Exercise and stretch: Regular exercises that strengthen the muscles in your hands, wrists, and forearms can improve mobility and reduce the risk of CTS. Simple stretches like wrist flexor and extensor stretches can help keep your muscles flexible.

Use hand therapy balls: Squeezing a soft therapy ball or using resistance bands can help build wrist strength.

Be cautious of repetitive movements

Vary tasks: Alternate between typing, mouse use, and other tasks to prevent repetitive strain from building up. Try using keyboard shortcuts to reduce the time spent on mouse-related tasks.

Adjust your workflow: If possible, reduce tasks that require prolonged hand or wrist movement. If you’re doing something repetitive, try breaking it into shorter bursts with rest periods.

Pay attention to symptoms

Early signs matter: If you start to notice tingling, numbness, or pain in your wrists, hands, or fingers — especially at night or after long periods of typing — don’t ignore it. Addressing early symptoms can prevent more serious issues down the road.

Our recommendations are independently chosen by Gulf News editors. If you decide to shop through links on our website, we may earn an affiliate commission, as we are part of Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.