For those who experience cold hands while mousing or typing, or for those who use a computer in an air-conditioned work environment, IGM Products has a line of computer devices that deserve a closer look. The Mouse Hand Warmer Blanket Pouch, the Warm Mouse, and the Warm Mouse Pad are designed to relieve the aching caused by cold fingers and poor circulation, arthritis, fibromyalgia, Raynaud’s symptoms, and even repetitive strain injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis.

Designed by Anna Miller, an internet pioneer and fashion ecommerce entrepreneur who suffered from cold and numb hands, the products are receiving good reviews within the technology industry. The Mouse Hand Warmer Blanket is a warm, fleece-lined pouch with a non-slip surface into which you can place a traditional mousing pad. Heat is maintained inside the pouch creating a warm mousing environment. The result is similar to a warm blanket covering your mousing hand. The pouch measures approximately 12 x 12 inches. The gray fleece with black and white trim is designed to give the pouch a modern, professional appearance. A net fronting allows for clear optical connection when using a wireless mouse. A small slit in the pouch front allows for easy connection when using a USB connected mouse. In addition, the pouch can be hand-washed and air-dried, is earth-friendly, made in the USA, uses no electricity, and has no cords attached.

Since the introduction of the Mouse Hand Warmer Blanket Pouch onto the market in 2008, and in response to its positive reception, several additional products have since been designed. The new ValueRays (Valueable Radiant Infrared Heat Rays) line offers a mouse and a mouse pad that provide infrared heat.

The Warm Mouse and Warm Mouse Pad are a USB infrared heated mouse and mouse pad made of a carbon fiber heating element. The mouse plugs quickly into a free USB port and is ready to use – it does not require any additional driver or software. An easy on/off switch on the USB cord allows you to turn the heat on or off as needed. The temperature is regulated between 99 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit keeping the hand comfortably warm. The majority of the heat is located in the palm of the hand. The mouse is light-weight and has a rapid cursor movement (800 DPI). The mouse is low voltage (5V) ensuring safety for both the user and the computer.

The Warm Mouse Pad also provides a radiant heat regulated between 99 and 104 degrees Farenheit. It requires two USB ports – one for a blue lighting function surrounding the pad and the other for the heating function. Either or both can be used depending upon your needs. The mouse pad also has a 4-port built-in USB Hub. The pad is a 10 x 10 inch black, compact panel suitable for all types of mouse usage.

A word of caution: The Warm Mouse may not be suitable for those with acute inflammation in the hand, those with loss of sensation, or young children. Although the temperature of the mouse does not become extremely hot, those with any condition causing sensory or circulatory deficits that may alter the way in which heat is dispersed by the tissues should be careful around any heated object.

Visit IGMproducts.com for additional information including product information and a learning center that discusses the health benefits of infrared heating.

Marji Hajic is an occupational therapist and a certified hand therapist practicing in Santa Barbara, California. For more information on hand and upper extremity injuries, prevention and recovery, please visit Hand Health Resources.