DEV Community

techfind777
techfind777

Posted on • Edited on

I Have RSI and Can't Type All Day — Here's How Voice Dictation Changed Everything

#rsi #tools #health #productivity

If you're a developer dealing with RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury), you know the pain — literally. Hours of typing leads to wrist pain, forearm tension, and sometimes numbness that makes you question your career choice.

I've been there. After years of coding 8+ hours a day, my wrists started screaming. I tried ergonomic keyboards, vertical mice, standing desks — they helped, but didn't solve the root problem: too much typing.

The Voice Dictation Solution

Six months ago, I started using voice dictation seriously, and it's been transformative. Here's my setup:

For General Writing & Communication

Typeless has been my go-to for voice typing. It works right in the browser, supports multiple languages, and the accuracy is surprisingly good. I use it for:

  • Writing emails and Slack messages
  • Drafting documentation
  • Writing blog posts (like this one!)
  • Taking meeting notes

For Coding

Voice coding is trickier, but tools like Talon and Cursorless make it possible. I use voice for:

  • Writing comments and docstrings
  • Dictating variable/function names
  • Navigating between files

My Daily Workflow

  1. Morning standup notes → Voice dictation with Typeless
  2. Code reviews → Type comments via voice
  3. Documentation → 100% voice dictated
  4. Slack/Email → 90% voice dictated
  5. Actual coding → Mix of voice + minimal typing

Results After 6 Months

  • Wrist pain reduced by ~80%
  • Writing speed actually increased (I can dictate faster than I type)
  • Daily typing reduced from 8+ hours to ~2 hours
  • No more end-of-day hand fatigue

Tips for Getting Started

  1. Start with non-code tasks — emails, docs, messages
  2. Give it a week — it feels weird at first, but you adapt fast
  3. Use a good microphone — even a basic headset mic works
  4. Don't try to be perfect — dictate first, edit later
  5. Take breaks — even voice work needs rest

If you're dealing with RSI, don't wait until it gets worse. Voice dictation isn't just a workaround — it's genuinely a better way to work for many tasks.

What tools do you use for RSI management? I'd love to hear what's working for others.

Top comments (0)