First, don't pay it yourself!
With WFH and the reduced costs of office space, commuting benefits and serving you food on Fridays, employers have budgeted for WFH supplies. You just need to ask. Do not be afraid to ask HR, they won’t care - it is like $100 max, and you are in pain or discomfort. They do not want you to take days off for that, or to sue. You need this to do your job without difficulty.
Work may ask for a doctor’s note. If so, after they ask, schedule 1 session with a Physical Therapist or Occupational Therapist to get this note.
The co-pay is worth it, because you’ll get a consult, specific exercises to remedy your thumb, hand or wrist condition, AND your work will pay for these products. Just be sure to keep the receipt!
If you do not want to go that route, you may also pay via your HSA or FSA.
Sample Letter from Occupational Therapist:
Here you go...3 Ergonomic Product Recommendations:
1) Goldtouch Keyboard
Bluetooth (for cafes, travel, etc) which folds! or USB (for home, a bit heavier and a different feel)
I bought both because I work at cafes, etc. and at home. Not worth switching between the two, dragging it out of my bag, etc.
Don’t go cheap on your health, esp. when work will pay for it.
2) Wireless Ergonomic Mouse
Logitech ERGO M575 Wireless Trackball Mouse
Great because it seamlessly syncs between multiple computers, just by pushing a button. It is raised in the style of the ‘vertical mice’, recommended for some people with carpal tunnel syndrome or RSI (repetitive stress injuries). Consult an Occupational Therapist in just one session to confirm, this is not medical advice!
3) Ergonomic Workspace Calculator
While this is not a product, once you know at which height your desk, chair, keyboard and monitor should be set, you can then purchase the correct items.
It is super quick and uses your height to determine this: