These should only be used by those typists who rest their wrists whilst typing or where a medical condition requires use (as recommended by a medical expert). By being the same height as the keyboard they eliminate any vertical bending at the wrist (extension). Although it depends on the product itself most models have a softer surface than the desk thus putting less pressure on the sensitive areas of the wrist.

Those wrist rests which are integral to the keyboard tend to be of the same plastic as the keyboard itself, whereas free standing models are either foam or contain a gel-like substance. If a separate wrist rest is chosen ensure that the back edge is the same height as the keyboard. This will reduce, if not eliminate, any vertical bending at the wrist. In addition study the wrists rest for potential pressure points. The product should support the wrist without 'digging' in to any part of it. At the other end of the scale it should not fix the wrist any one position, as can happen if the material is too soft.

Lastly the rest should be large enough to support the wrist whilst not pushing the keyboard too far away from the user. It should still be possible to type with the elbows vertically underneath the shoulders (i.e. elbows at right angles) and with the back fully supported.

Available from most stationary or office equipment suppliers prices range from £7 to £22.