Keyboard Ergonomic Design?

I don't know who's going to receive this, but hopefully it lands in the right ear.  I recently had to go through physical therapy on my shoulder for ergonomic strain relating to repetitive keyboard use.  I have thought of a simple fix, but unfortunately there are no keyboard designs (that I know of) that would help me achieve it.

 

Here's my thought.  Sit in front of your computer in a comfortable and ergonomical position and you'll probably be sitting with your keyboard in front of you with the "G" and "H" key dead center.  This is the obvious balance for keyboard use.  However, if you use a combination of keyboard and mouse use, where is your mouse?  Its outside the scroll keys and the number pad.  If you move your hand to the mouse location, notice the imbalance.  This is what caused the unusual "stretching" of my right shoulder muscle.  Now, imagine the scroll key pad and number pad could be located to the LEFT of the keyboard... slide your mouse in closer to the keypad ... and if you have to "stretch" for the number key, or if you have to use the mouse, there would be a balance between the motion of both arms.  (NOTE: I use "stretch" in the sense of the the longstanding effect it can have from the repetitive motion, please don't think I am THAT lazy).

 

Its all about balance, and although I know this may go against the whole traditional typing habits, I think this may solve a lot of ergo issues for computer users.

 

James Lahey

Environmental Health and Safety Specialist

LEHDER Environmental Services Limited