THESE GIFTS MAKE WORK LESS PAINFUL

The Logitech Marble Mouse has a trackball, developed to respond to finger tracing rather than relying on the dragging movement that accompanies most mousework.

Typing may soon become obsolete with computer programs that respond to the spoken word like Dragon Naturally Speaking Standard, which sells for $109.99.

Break time can be more invigorating if you have a way to work out those knots in your neck. A happy massager sells for $12 at JCPenney with the gift package selling for $18.

So you joined in when they drew names at the office this year. Wondering what to give your co-worker?

How about a gift that makes being at work less painful?

With more and more home and office workers "desk-bound," or spending longer hours using computers, designers have been researching more comfortable desk supplies.

Dozens of options are available, from ergonomic chairs that cost anywhere between $70 and $700, to $10 mouse pads and $2 squeeze balls that help ease tension in tired hands and wrists.

Foot massagers that can be used while at work are becoming increasingly sought after.

General Nutrition Center sales clerks in Cape Girardeau report the Twinkle Toes Massager, priced at $14.99, is a popular item.

The portable, quiet massager uses batteries so you can slip your feet out of your shoes and into a warm foot massage at your desk.

Rather than investing in a new chair, some are choosing the option of massaging seat and back pads. The Back Therapy 5-motor seat massager sells for about $60 at GNC and can be used at home, in the office or even in the car.

With the increase in keyboard use also came the upswing in carpal tunnel syndrome, making wrist rests and mouse pads with wrist supports necessary.

The newest mouse pads use gel padding instead of foam stuffing.

The Ultimate Mouse Mat, with "cyber gel" sells for $9.99 at Babbages.

Of course, typing itself may soon become obsolete.

New innovations in software have resulted in computer programs that respond to the spoken word rather than typing: Dragon Naturally Speaking Standard $109.99

This year has also seen improvements in the computer mouse itself. Several new mouse controls have trackballs, developed to respond to finger tracing rather than relying on the dragging movement that accompanies most mousework.

One such item, the Logitech Marble Mouse sells for $44.99 at Babbages. Other, similar mouse products are also available from Microsoft and Genius.

Break time can be more invigorating if you have a way to work out those knots in your neck.

A happy massager sells for $12 at JCPenney, while a happy massager gift package sells for $18.